The MRI of the knee mainly looks at the meniscus, ligaments and joint effusion and other lesions in addition to the bone, and the cost of the exam is directly related to the level of resolution of the machine. For example, the cost of a normal 1.5T MRI for the knee is$500, and for a 3.0T MRI with high resolution, it may cost about$1000. It is important to register for a normal visit before doing the test so that the doctor can check the body to simply determine the approximate direction of the specific lesion in the knee joint and determine if an MRI is necessary. However, not all lesions can be seen very carefully and clearly after an MRI. Some subtle fractures require a 3D CT, which is more sensitive than an MRI, and there is no substitute for either.