Radiologist Questions Mri

How is a MRI done on the shoulder?

I'm going to have an MRI scan on my shoulder. How is this test usually done? I never had an MRI before.

3 Answers

An MRI of the shoulder is performed with the patient placed in a MRI scanner. A specific coil designed for the shoulder is draped over the shoulder in question to provide more information and high resolution imaging of the osseous structures, cartilage, and ligaments. The procedure takes 30 min. Being as still as possible in the scanner is imperative for optimal quality images.

Brian
Hi,

You will be put into a magnetic tube. A coil will be placed on your shoulder. You will have to remain very still for the exam which will probably last 20 minutes. Before the exam you will be asked about metal in the body or history of metal in the eyes. You will be asked about implanted devices such as pacemakers, infusion pumps or neurostimulators. You will need to remove all metal, electronic devices, wallet with credit cards, etc., from your person before going in the the room for your MRI. You will be given ear plugs. You will be able to communicate with the technologist during the exam by intercom.

Regards,

Donald Massee
They put you in a large magnet and strap a surface coil on you and then you lie still for about 25 minutes. It's not painful.