Orthopedic MRI

Orthopedic MRI Services | Subspecialty Training | Experience with Elite Athletes

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging technology that uses powerful magnets, radio waves and computer technology to create detailed pictures of structures inside the body. It is a painless and extremely safe procedure – no radiation is used – that can very quickly help your doctor diagnose a variety of medical conditions.

At University Radiology, our staff includes 20 fellowship-trained experts in orthopedic imaging who evaluate and examine bones, joints and soft tissues (muscles, tendons and ligaments). They use MRI as a primary modality for adults and children to diagnose conditions including:

  • Joint deterioration (osteoarthritis)
  • Cartilage, ligament and tendon tears
  • Fractures and other sports or work-related injuries
  • Infections and tumors involving tissues around the joints
  • Inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis
Orthopedic MRI

Musculoskeletal MRI is also an important tool in assessing the results of orthopedic surgery and other treatments for injuries and degenerative disorders. MRI is available at our outpatient facilities as well as at our affiliated hospitals.

Orthopedic MRI Services

University Radiology offers the latest in MRI technologies including High-Field MRI, which uses a cylindrical tube in which the magnet is enclosed, and Open MRI, which has a wide-open space for larger patients or those who are claustrophobic.

In addition to using MRI to detect and treat disease or injury, our specialist also use MRI to guide interventional procedures and treatments, including:

  • Arthrography, a medical imaging technique in which a dye is injected to examine the structure and movement of joints, including the hips, knees, shoulders and ankles
  • Fluid removal from joints
  • Therapeutic joint and soft tissue injections to relieve pain
  • Cyst aspirations

Why is Subspecialty Training in Orthopedic Imaging Important?

Subspecialty training is important because interpreting orthopedic MRI often involves recognizing subtle findings, understanding complex anatomy, and integrating imaging results with clinical decision-making. While all board-certified radiologists receive broad training, fellowship (subspecialty) training provides additional focused experience that can improve expertise in specific areas. For example, subspecialty training in orthopedic imaging can help doctors detect subtle abnormalities, such as small ligament tears, stress injuries, early cartilage damage and other conditions that can be difficult to recognize.

Subspecialists in this area are exposed to a much larger number of these cases. Additionally, they have knowledge of advanced and specialized MRI protocols and techniques, such as MR arthrography and diffusion-weighted imaging, giving them the opportunity to improve diagnostic quality and reduce the need for repeat imaging.

Backed by Experience with Elite Athletes

University Radiology’s expertise in orthopedic imaging is sharpened by our work as the imaging partner for some of the region’s top sports programs, including Rutgers Athletics, the NJ Devils, the Somerset Patriots, Gotham FC and Seton Hall Athletics. Caring for professional and collegiate athletes exposes our radiologists to complex musculoskeletal injuries and keeps them at the forefront of sports medicine imaging, expertise that benefits every patient we see, from elite athletes to weekend warriors.

For more information about Orthopedic MRI at University Radiology Group, or to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists, please contact us.