How to Read MRI: A Beginner's Guide

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a powerful diagnostic tool that creates detailed images of the spine and joints. Unlike X-rays, MRI can visualize soft tissues: discs, ligaments, muscles, nerves, and cartilage.

How to Read Spine MRI: Key Findings

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc occurs when the nucleus pulposus protrudes beyond the disc boundary. Size ranges from 5 mm to larger protrusions. The location is described by vertebral level and direction (central, lateral, or foraminal).

What to look for: Disc bulging, nerve compression. Learn about MIBRAR's treatment for herniated discs.

Protrusion (Disc Bulge)

A protrusion is a less severe form of disc herniation where the nucleus remains partially contained. Size ranges from 5-12+ mm. The disc material may compress nerve roots or the spinal cord.

Clinical example: A protrusion at L4-L5 measuring 8 mm with compression of the nerve root and mild stenosis at the L4-L5 level indicates moderate nerve involvement.

Sequestration

Sequestration occurs when disc material separates from the main disc and migrates. This is a more severe form of herniation. Sequestered fragments may migrate cranially or caudally, potentially causing significant nerve compression.

Spinal Stenosis

Stenosis is narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses nerve structures. Measured in millimeters. Normal canal diameter is approximately 12 mm. Stenosis is considered moderate at 7 mm or less.

How to Read Knee MRI

Chondromalacia (Cartilage Softening)

Chondromalacia is graded as: Grade I and superficial softening, Grade II and surface irregularities, Grade III and deep fissuring, Grade IV and full-thickness loss. MIBRAR treats Grades I-III.

Meniscus Tear

Clinical example: Degenerative meniscal tear of the medial meniscus with a horizontal cleavage pattern and extension into the posterior horn. Tears are classified as: traumatic and acute versus degenerative and chronic. MIBRAR treats meniscus tears.

Cruciate Ligament Injury

Ligament tears appear as discontinuity on MRI with increased signal intensity indicating acute ligament injury.

How to Read Shoulder MRI

Rotator Cuff Tear

Rotator cuff tears are identified by discontinuity of the tendon fibers with fluid signal between the torn edges. Partial tears (less than 50% thickness) and full-thickness tears require different treatment approaches. Learn about MIBRAR's rotator cuff treatment.

How to Understand Osteoarthritis Grades on X-ray/MRI?

Osteoarthritis is graded using the Kellgren-Lawrence scale:

• KL 0: Normal
• KL 1: Doubtful narrowing, possible osteophytes
• KL 2: Definite narrowing, small osteophytes
• KL 3: Moderate narrowing, multiple osteophytes, some deformity
• KL 4: Severe narrowing, large osteophytes, marked deformity

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