Fluoroscopy and ultrasonography guidance is fast, widely available, and can be effective with sufficient experience. However, cross-sectional guidance ensures high technical success rates due to better visualization of joint spaces, an individual’s anatomy and visualization of the intra-articular compartment distribution of injectants. CT- or MR-guided interventions are associated with higher rates of successful articular function and improved outcomes. 

The major advantage of interventional MRI over CT is the unique combination of true cross-sectional display of joint anatomy without potentially harmful ionizing radiation and with high contrast resolution to visualize the injectant within the target joint of around a nerve without adding contrast agents like iodine, which may have side effects or result in allergic reactions. Another unique feature is the superior visualization of anatomy as the doctor can tailor imaging planes freely, which can be helpful when joints are difficult to access. An advantage shared with other modalities is the ability for near real-time needle guidance using state-of-the-art MR fluoroscopy.