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The knee joint is one of the most crucial joints relating to an individual’s ability to walk, jog and run. The knee joint connects bones from the upper leg and the lower leg. It is filled with a special fluid that is used to lubricate the joint and also absorb shocks that pass through the joint. Knee injuries are fairly common amongst sports persons, particularly with runners and soccer players. Knee injuries also occur with wear and tear. Elderly individuals are likely to suffer from knee problems. The knee joint may also be affected by tumors or infections. Therefore, scanning of the joint is essential when it comes to making an accurate diagnosis relating to the cause of the pain.

An MRI procedure is used to determine the condition of the knee joint. The MRI procedure is preferred as it produces high quality images and can be used from multiple angles to understand the full scope of the problem. In some cases, the doctor will order the MRI of knee with contrast. Contrast, in this case, refers to contrast material. This is a fluid that is used to light up the structures within the joint. Contrast fluid either coats the outlines of various structures or fills the empty space between these structures. This makes the structure in question highly visible. The Knee MRI with contrast is therefore useful for its accuracy. Increased accuracy will help to identify problems that may otherwise be missed. The MRI of knee with contrast can also be used to check the flow of blood to and from this part of the body. This may also help in the process of diagnosis.

The radiology of knee with contrast takes place in a hospital. The contrast material will be injected just prior to the test. During the MRI of knee with contrast, the patient needs to be absolutely still. Therefore, every effort to make the patient comfortable must be taken. The scan may be repeated from several different angles for the best result. The knee may also be straightened and bent to the degree that the doctor wishes to check. Depending on the condition of the patient, the doctor may recommend hospitalization before an MRI of knee with contrast. This particularly applies to those who are experiencing great pain while walking because of their knee problem. The MRI of knee with contrast takes about an hour and a half to complete. Besides this, the doctor may also suggest an MRI of the thigh with contrast or an MRI of the leg with contrast to be done. This is however in extreme cases and may not necessarily be required.