Table of Contents
What does a thumb MRI show?
Images show ulnar collateral ligament (straight black arrows) and overlaying aponeurosis of adductor pollicis tendon (black arrowheads) on ulnar side and radial collateral ligament (straight white arrow) and aponeurosis of abductor pollicis brevis tendon (white arrowheads) on radial side of metacarpophalangeal joint.
Does an MRI show damaged tendons?
An MRI offers excellent contrast resolution for bones and soft tissues.” Torn or detached ligaments, tendons, muscles and cartilage, such as: Meniscal tears.
How is an MRI of the thumb done?
You may be asked to remove jewelry, glasses, and any metal objects or clothing that may interfere with the images. During the exam you will be placed on a table and positioned inside the center of a large tube-like scanner with openings at both ends. Affected hand or finger will then be placed in a MRI coil.
What tendons and ligaments are in the thumb?
Abductor pollicis longus (APL) tendon It attaches to the metacarpal bone of the thumb and helps pull the thumb away from the rest of the hand. This tendon along with the extensor policies brevis tendon can get inflamed and painful.
Can you do an MRI on a thumb?
A simple explanation of the procedure and thorough check for contraindications are all that are required prior to the exam. Upon arriving at Thumb MRI Center you will be asked to complete several pages of paperwork. You may download and complete these before your arrival by clicking the Patient Forms.
What do tendons look like on MRI?
On MRI the tendon is of low signal on all conventional sequences with variable punctate or linear high signal, particularly near the superior calcaneum, visible on high-resolution images (Figure 2) [43]. Changes within the abnormal tendon appear similar irrespective of the aetiology.
How long does an MRI of the thumb take?
30-45 minutes
A typical exam lasts from 30-45 minutes. You will also be offered music to listen to during the scan. We have a variety of music to choose from, or you may bring your own CD.
What does a torn tendon in your thumb feel like?
If the ulnar collateral ligament is completely torn, the end of the ruptured ligament may cause a lump or swelling on the inside of the thumb. Your thumb joint may also feel loose or unstable. You may have difficulty grasping items between your thumb and index finger.
What does a torn thumb UCL feel like?
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Skier’s Thumb? Symptoms of a UCL tear include pain in the webbing between thumb and index finger, bruise-like discoloration on the thumb’s skin, and swelling of the thumb that develops over the hours immediately following the injury.