MRI of the shoulder

An MRI scan of the shoulder is usually carried out to assess causes of pain in the shoulder area. The most typical causes of pain are inflammation or a tear in the rotator cuff and issues of the shoulder joint, such as labrum tears or cartilage damage.

Scanned area and structures shown in the scan

• Scanned area:
  • from the shoulder joint to about halfway of the shoulder line and about 10 cm along the upper arm.

• Structures shown in the scan:
  • shoulder joint
  • AC joint
  • muscles and tendons of the rotator cuff
  • labrum
  • tendon at the long end of the biceps
  • surrounding muscles.
    

How is an MRI scan of the shoulder performed?

An MRI scan of the shoulder is performed in an illuminated and ventilated tunnel-like device that is open at both ends.

The MRI scanner usually scans one object at a time, which takes about 30 minutes.

During the scan, sets of images are usually taken from three different directions. The sets consist of multiple slices. The sets are planned according to the area to be scanned and the person's symptoms.

SYNLAB’s MRI scan services always include a radiologist's statement. You will receive the statement and the MRI scan images within 1–3 working days.

Learn more about other magnetic examinations