The sacrum is the part of the pelvis (the bone) that sits between the two joints connecting the sacrum to the rest of the pelvis (the pelvic bone). The two joints are called Sacroiliac Joints (SI Joints). Sacrum and SI joints are part of the lower back and connect the spine to the pelvis.
The indication for an MRI of the sacrum area is inflammation of the SI joints leading to pain around the pelvis/hips occasionally radiating to thighs and legs.
Contrast (dye)
Some symptoms and illnesses can be hard to detect even on a MRI scan and require injection of dye (contrast) before or during the scan.
It is particularly helpful in the following conditions:
- Tumours
- Inflammation
- Blood vessels
- Distinguishing between scar tissue and normal organ tissue
The injection is considered very safe for most and you will complete a safety questionnaire detailing your medical history before. The contrast agent (dye) is Gadolinium based and most of it is removed by your kidneys within the next day.
Read more about Gadolinium contrast dye