MRI Knee
High-resolution MRI of the knee for ligament tears, meniscus injury, cartilage damage, and post-surgical follow-up.
Find MRI Knee near you
What a mri knee shows
- Meniscus tears (medial and lateral)
- ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL injuries
- Articular cartilage defects and osteochondral lesions
- Patellar tendon and quadriceps tendon injury
- Bone bruise and stress fracture
- Baker's cyst, bursitis, and joint effusion
- Post-surgical evaluation of ACL reconstruction or meniscectomy
Why your physician orders it
- Acute knee injury with swelling, instability, or locking
- Persistent knee pain that hasn't improved with conservative care
- Suspected meniscus or ligament tear
- Pre-operative planning before knee surgery
- Post-operative evaluation
Contrast notes
Most musculoskeletal MRI is performed without contrast. Gadolinium is reserved for select indications — post-operative scar vs. recurrent disc, suspected infection or tumor, or arthrographic protocols. Your ordering physician and our radiologist will confirm contrast use before the exam, and kidney function is screened first when contrast is planned.
Prep summary
Most patients don't need special prep beyond completing the MRI/CT safety screening and removing metal jewelry. Specific prep (fasting, contrast, medication timing) is confirmed at scheduling.
Read the full MRI prep guideWhat to expect during the exam
Plan for 30–60 minutes at the imaging center. You'll change into a gown and remove all metal. A technologist positions you on the table with the coil over the area being imaged; the table then slides into the magnet.
MRI is loud — you'll wear ear protection and can listen to music or talk to the technologist through the intercom at any time. Holding still for each sequence (typically 2–5 minutes each) produces the sharpest images.
Results and report turnaround
Every study is interpreted by a board-certified radiologist — most by fellowship-trained sub-specialists in the relevant body system. Preliminary reads are typically available within a few hours, with the signed final report sent to your ordering provider the same business day.
You can also request a copy of the report and the imaging on disk for your own records or for a second opinion.
Cost and insurance
Most major California insurance plans cover medically necessary knee MRI when authorized. Our team verifies your benefits before scheduling and tells you up front what — if anything — you'll owe.
We also accept cash pay, workers' compensation, and personal-injury liens. Self-pay rates are published below so there are no surprises at the front desk.
Why patients choose Precise Imaging for MRI Knee
Sub-specialty Reads
Fellowship-trained neuro, MSK, and body radiologists interpret every study.
Open & Wide-Bore Options
Comfortable choices for claustrophobic, pediatric, or larger patients.
Same-Day Appointments
Most locations offer same- or next-day scheduling, including evenings and weekends.
Every Financial Type
Insurance, cash, workers' comp, and personal injury liens accepted.
Find a mri knee location
Our network covers California from San Diego to Sacramento. Use the finder above to see MRI locations near you, or browse the full directory.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a knee MRI take?
Plan for 30–45 minutes in the scanner. The knee is positioned in a dedicated coil for maximum image quality.
Will I need contrast?
Most knee MRIs are non-contrast. If your physician suspects a labral or chondral injury that requires an arthrogram, contrast is injected into the joint by a radiologist before the scan.
Should I take my pain medication before the exam?
Yes — being comfortable helps you lie still. Bring a list of medications and any allergies to check-in.
Can I have a knee MRI with knee hardware?
Most modern orthopedic hardware is MRI-compatible. We screen every patient before the exam; metal artifact reduction sequences are used when imaging near hardware.
When will my orthopedist receive results?
The signed final report is typically delivered the same business day, with preliminary findings available within a few hours.
How much does a knee MRI cost?
Insured patients pay their plan's copay or coinsurance. We also offer transparent, discounted self-pay rates — call 800-558-2223 for a quote.
Do I need a referral?
Yes, an order from a physician is required and most insurers require prior authorization.