MRI Scan Sternum

A sternum MRI visualizes the breastbone’s bone marrow and surrounding soft tissues, detecting fractures, bone marrow edema, infection (osteomyelitis/abscess), tumors or metastatic lesions, and post‑surgical or inflammatory changes. It shows cartilage and joint involvement, mediastinal soft‑tissue extension, and vascular relationships, helping characterize lesions, guide biopsy or treatment planning, and distinguish benign from malignant processes.

Chest MRI costs vary by country and provider. In the US it typically ranges from about $400–$3,000 or more depending on facility and insurance; in the UK it’s free on the NHS with referral, while private scans usually cost roughly £300–£700. In India, private chest MRI prices commonly fall around ₹3,000–₹12,000. Costs depend on location, contrast use, and facility.

Most sternum wires (stainless-steel sternal wires used after open‑heart surgery) are considered MRI‑compatible and will not move in the scanner. They can, however, produce local image artefact and slight heating. Always inform the radiology/MRI team about them—staff will review implant details and use appropriate scanner settings or alternatives if needed. If recently operated, mention timing to the team.

MRI can detect chest infections—showing lung consolidation, pleural effusion and complications—but it isn’t the routine test. Chest X‑ray and CT are faster, more available and better at imaging air-filled lungs; CT is more sensitive for pneumonia and complications. MRI is useful when avoiding radiation (children, pregnancy) or for specific soft-tissue assessment. Discuss imaging choice with your clinician.

You may have a sternum problem if you develop localized central chest pain, tenderness or swelling over the breastbone that worsens with movement, deep breaths, coughing, or pressing. Visible deformity or bruising after trauma, fever, or difficulty breathing are concerning. Persistent, severe, or progressive symptoms—or any breathing trouble, chest tightness, or fever after injury—require urgent medical assessment.

MRI does not detect chest pain itself, but cardiac and thoracic MRI can identify many causes — myocardial infarction and scarring, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, pericardial disease, aortic dissection, and some pulmonary or vascular problems. MRI is most useful for subacute or chronic evaluation; it’s less used for unstable acute chest pain because it’s slower, less available, and has contraindications.