A thumb MRI can reveal fractures and bone bruises, ligament tears (including ulnar collateral/Stener lesions), tendon injuries (flexor and extensor), cartilage damage and joint degeneration, joint inflammation or infection, bone marrow edema, cysts or ganglia, and soft‑tissue tumors. It also assesses post‑operative changes and guides treatment planning by showing the exact location, extent, and chronicity of injuries that may not appear on X‑rays.

Costs vary widely by country, facility and whether public insurance covers it. On public systems it’s typically free; private UK clinics charge about £200–£700. In India expect roughly ₹1,000–8,000. In the US self‑pay MRI of the thumb/hand usually runs about $400–$3,000. Added fees for contrast, specialist radiologist reports or urgent appointments can raise the price.

An MRI of the thumb uses a small dedicated coil with your hand/forearm positioned comfortably on a pad or inside an extremity coil. You lie still in the scanner (or use an open/extremity MRI); the machine makes loud knocking sounds—ear protection is provided. Multiple sequences image bone, cartilage, ligaments and soft tissues; scans take about 10–30 minutes. Contrast dye is used only if needed.

The CPT codes for an MRI of the right thumb fall under MRI, upper extremity: 73221 (without contrast), 73222 (with contrast) or 73223 (without and with contrast). Append the laterality modifier “-RT” to indicate the right side (e.g., 73221-RT). Select the specific code based on whether contrast is used and follow payer-specific billing rules.

An MRI of the thumb typically takes about 20–40 minutes in the scanner. Total appointment time (check-in, positioning and image checks) can extend to 45–60 minutes. Duration varies with scanner type, number of sequences, need for contrast, patient movement and additional views. Dedicated extremity coils often shorten scanning time.

An MRI can detect many hand nerve problems—visible nerve swelling, compression, inflammation, and secondary muscle changes—especially using MR neurography (a specialized technique). Standard MRI often shows surrounding causes like ganglia, fractures, or tendon disease. However, tiny or purely functional nerve injuries and small‑fiber neuropathies may be missed; nerve conduction studies (EMG/NCS) and clinical exam are often needed for full assessment.