MRI ARM

Introduction 

This is a type of MRI that non-invasively images the muscle, bone, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and the blood vessels of the arm using strong magnets and radio waves. Contrast can be used depending on the clinical question that needs to be answered.  

What is an MRI Arm Scan? How It Works & When It’s Needed 

As with any part of the body, MRI scan of the arm is done to generate images of the cross section and three-dimensional formats of the upper limb from the shoulder down to the wrist or a specific region such as the elbow, forearm, or upper arm. It is very sensitive in identifying soft tissues and musculoskeletal pathologies. 

Soft tissue integrity (muscles, ligaments, tendons) 

* Bone marrow signal 

* Presence of mass lesions 

* Neurovascular structures 

* Joint space, cartilage, and synovium 

Diagnosing tendon or ligament injuries 

* Detecting infections, abscesses, or tumours 

* Evaluating unexplained pain, swelling, or limited motion 

* Ruling out nerve compression syndromes 

* Assessing chronic inflammatory conditions (e.g., arthritis, myositis) 

When and Who Should Get an MRI Arm Scan? 

Indications for MRI Arm 

• Injuries to muscles (e.g., biceps, triceps, brachialis) or tendon tears. 
• Tumours, lipomas, or sarcomas of suspected origin.  
• Arm ache, swelling, and weakness without an apparent cause. 
• Infectious or inflammatory processes (abscess, cellulitis, myositis, etc.) 
• Assessment of entrapment neuropathy (radial or ulnar nerves)  
• Post-trauma assessment (fracture or ligament injury).  

Patient Demographics: 

• Arms with tissue damage. 
• Undertreated chronic pain in arms with restricted mobility. 
• Surgical patients.  
• Patients suffering from cancers as part of follow-up for tumour assessment or recurrence.  

Benefits of MRI Scan Arm: Accurate, Safe & Detailed

• Exceptional contrast resolution of soft tissues  
• No ionizing radiation exposure  
• Non-invasive detection of subtle pathology at early stages  
• Precise surgical or other treatment formulation  
• Localized and generalized arm ailments simultaneously  

Conditions Diagnosed Using an MRI Arm Scan

• Skin and soft tissue abscesses or cellulitis  
• Osteomyelitis, bone abscesses  
• Tumours, either benign or malignant, arising in any organ  
• Post-surgical or post-trauma complications  
• Myositis or fasciitis of any muscle or soft tissue 

• Specific preparation not required unless contrast material is utilized  
• No food or drink restrictions with or without contrast usage  
• Remove any metallic objects  
• Wear loose and comfortable trousers  
• Alert the radiologist if pregnant or breastfeeding  

Pre-requisites Before Getting an MRI Arm Scan 

• Issue-free and thorough clinical history  
• Completion of an MRI screening questionnaire for implants or metallic devices  
• eGFR or creatinine test if contrast is planned to be used  
• Referral note from indicating physician  

Best time to do MRI Arm Test 

• Fulfilling requirements after a non-lifestyle affecting injury  
• Advanced arm injury not healing with standard procedures  
• Proactively after orthopaedic or oncologic procedures  
• As routine post-cancer surgery staging or recurrence surveillance  

Eligibility for Undergoing an MRI Arm Scan 

• Adults and cooperative children (or if sedated)  
• Excludes patients with MRI-incompatible devices 

*Contrast use contraindicated in severe renal impairment unless absolutely needed 

MRI Arm Test Procedure 

• Oasis imaging has the MRI scan with ice pack to help support the arm… 
• Injecting contrast through the IV route can be done where necessary 
• Depending on other scans planned with the patient, the post scan check is done… 

Caution During an MRI Arm Scan 

• Monitor and report any fragments of metal or bone structures prior to commencing the scan 
• Sedative medication can be given at the request of the claustrophobic patient 
• Avoided movement during take starts for the scans in all areas to ensure clarity