MRI Scan Wrist Arthrography

An MRI arthrogram causes brief sharp pain when the needle is inserted and a sense of pressure or fullness during contrast injection. Most people have mild-to-moderate discomfort that eases within hours; aching or joint soreness may persist 24 to 48 hours. Local anesthetic reduces pain, and simple analgesics or ice help afterward. Seek medical advice for severe pain, heavy swelling, fever, or worsening symptoms.

MRI arthrography is an imaging test where contrast dye is injected into a joint before MRI to better outline internal joint structures. By expanding the joint space, it improves detection of labral, ligament, cartilage and capsule injuries (commonly shoulder and hip). The injection is done under local anaesthetic with imaging guidance. Risks are small and include infection, bleeding, pain or allergic reaction.

A wrist MRI shows detailed images of bones, bone marrow, cartilage and joint spaces, ligaments (including the scapholunate ligament and TFCC), tendons, nerves, blood vessels and surrounding soft tissues. It detects fractures missed on X‑ray, tendon or ligament tears, inflammation, degenerative changes, cysts, fluid/effusion and masses, helping diagnose pain, instability, swelling or suspected soft‑tissue injury.

In the U.S., an MRI arthrogram typically costs $700–$2,500 (higher in hospitals). In the UK, private scans run about £250–£800; NHS scans are usually free when clinically indicated. In India, private fees are roughly ₹3,000–₹12,000. Final price depends on location, whether contrast/injection and radiologist fees are included, facility type, and whether insurance covers it.

Recovery after an MRI arthrogram is usually quick. You can go home the same day, rest for a few hours, and avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours. Mild soreness, bruising or stiffness commonly lasts 1–2 days; if a steroid was injected, symptom improvement may take 24–72 hours (occasionally up to a week). Contact your clinician for fever, severe pain, increasing swelling, redness, or drainage.

MRI is a noninvasive scan using magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of soft tissues and bones. An MRI arthrogram adds intra‑articular contrast (injected into the joint) before MRI, improving visualization of cartilage, labrum, ligaments and small tears. Arthrograms are more invasive, carry small risks (infection, bleeding, contrast reaction) but detect subtle joint pathology better.