Elbow MRI in Casablanca

• Persistent pain on the outer side of the elbow, known as lateral epicondylitis or tennis elbow.
• Pain on the inner side, related to the flexor tendons (medial epicondylitis) or to the medial collateral ligament in throwing athletes.
• Suspected rupture of the biceps tendon at the crease of the elbow after a sudden effort.
• Locking or cracking that leads to a search for a loose fragment of cartilage in the joint.
• Tingling in the last two fingers that may suggest compression of the ulnar nerve.
• Subtle fracture not visible on the X-ray, particularly of the radial head.

The radiographer goes over the safety questionnaire with you, then you remove jewelry, watch and bracelets. The positioning depends on the machine and on your body shape. Most often, you lie on your back with your arm along your body, elbow straight and palm facing up, in a coil that wraps around the elbow. Sometimes you need to lie on your stomach with your arm stretched above your head, to bring the elbow to the center of the magnet; cushions make this position more bearable.

The machine is noisy, hence the headphones. Keep your hand and fingers still: a simple movement of the hand can shift the elbow. A call button lets you reach the team. At the end, move your arm gently before getting up.

• Wear a top with loose sleeves that are easy to roll up above the elbow, or use the gown provided.
• If the position with your arm above your head is difficult for you, for example because of a painful shoulder, say so before you are positioned.
• Remove rings and bracelets on the side being examined before entering the MRI room.

Fasting

An elbow MRI requires no fasting: you can eat your meals and take your usual medication normally.

Contrast injection

An intravenous gadolinium injection is not routine for the elbow. It may be added in case of a mass, an infection or arthritis (inflammation of the joint), if the radiologist decides so.

• Pacemaker or defibrillator: the exam is possible only for an MRI-compatible model, with a specific procedure.
• Neurostimulator, cochlear implant, implanted pump or older vascular clip.
• Metal fragment, especially in the eye, for example after grinding or welding work.
• Pins, plate or screws in the elbow: please tell us, so that their compatibility can be checked and distorted areas on the image anticipated.
• Insulin pump or glucose sensor (such as FreeStyle Libre): to be removed before the exam. Bring what you need to replace it or put it back afterwards.
• Current or possible pregnancy: please tell us. MRI is performed only if it is necessary, preferably after the first trimester, and without gadolinium unless absolutely necessary.
• Breastfeeding: please tell us. It is generally not necessary to stop breastfeeding after a gadolinium injection.
• Severe kidney failure, before a gadolinium injection.
• Tattoos on the arm, permanent makeup or fear of enclosed spaces: tell the team in advance.

• Prescription stating which elbow is to be examined (right or left).
• Elbow X-rays or ultrasound already performed.
• Results of an electromyogram if tingling has been investigated.
• Surgical report if you have had elbow surgery.
• List of your medications and insurance or mutual insurance fund card.

• Musculoskeletal and soft tissue ultrasound
• Upper Limb X-Ray (Shoulder, Arm, Elbow, Wrist, Hand)
• Bone and Joint CT Scan of the Limbs
• MR arthrography