MRI BOTH SHOULDERS

MRI Both Shoulders Overview

The MRI scan of both shoulders is done to get high-quality pictures of the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage of the shoulder joints. The procedure is non-invasive and does not cause any pain to the patient. The diagnosis can be performed to check for any injuries and inflammation as well as degenerative conditions.  

What is MRI of Both Shoulders? 

An MRI device utilizes a magnetic field and radio waves while avoiding ionizing radiation to create detailed images of the shoulder structures. MRI scans utilize magnetic fields and radio waves to create these images. It has the additional benefit of being far more efficient than X-rays or CT scans when examining soft tissues, including ligaments, tendons, and even cartilage. 

Types of MRI Both Shoulders 

• Without Contrast: Basic type of diagnostic imaging for different types of shoulder injuries. 
• With Contrast (Gadolinium enhanced): For tumour detection, inflammation, and after surgery change. 
• MRI Arthrogram: This method includes administering contrast dye into the shoulder joint to assess labral tears and ligament damage with greater precision. 

List of Parameters Considered During MRI Both Shoulders

• The status of the rotator cuff muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, teres minor) 
• Condition of the labrum (tears or detachment) 
• Position of the glenohumeral joint 
• Fluid collections or inflammatory changes 
• Muscles and ligaments pathological changes 

Reasons for Taking an MRI Both Shoulders

• Possible shoulder rotator cuff or labral tears 
• Shoulder impingement syndrome 
• Biceps tendonitis or tendon tears 
• Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis evaluation 
• Chronic pain or unexplained shoulder dysfunction 
• Complications after surgeries assessment 

When and Who Needs to Take an MRI Both Shoulders? 

Reason: 

• Pain or weakness in the shoulder that does not go away 
• Stiffness or restricted range of motion 
• Possible rotator cuff tears 
• Dislocated shoulders that happen frequently 
• Following an injury, fracturs along with soft tissue damage needs checking 
• Arthritis or any degenerative disease assessment 
• Evaluation before and after surgical intervention 

Patient Profile: 

• Athletes suffering from repetitive strain in their shoulders 
• Older individuals suffering from degenerative diseases of the joints 
• People suffering from acute or chronic pain in the shoulder joint 
• Individuals who had shoulder surgery and are currently in the rehabilitation phase 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• No surgery and no radiation 
• Excellent contrast for soft tissues 
• Very important for diagnosis and planning of treatment 
• Aids early diagnosis of degenerative disease 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Both Shoulders

• Rotator cuff tears 
• Labral tears (SLAP lesions) 
• Shoulder impingement syndrome 
• Arthritis (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis) 
• Dislocation and instability of the shoulder joint 
• Tendonitis and bursitis 
• Fractures and post-traumatic injuries 

Preparing for MRI Both Shoulders

• Take off any metallic and electronic items 
• Put on loose, comfortable clothing 
• Tell the operator about implants and thinking of being pregnant 
• If contrast is used, it is necessary to not eat or drink prior to the image. 

Pre-requisites 

• No known allergy to contrast agents (if hassle free MRI is in order) 
• Anxiety and/or claustrophobia pre-medication if necessary 

Best Time to Take the MRI Both Shoulders 

• At any time according to the physician's logic 
• Pre-planned considering possible delays and availability 

Eligibility 

• Acceptable by all patients except for those with unforgiving metal implants and pacemakers. 

Procedure for Taking an MRI Both Shoulders 

• The patient is placed on the MRI table in a position of maximum comfort. 
• A coil is placed at the level of both shoulder joints. 
• Images are created by a MRI scanner from magnetic fields and radio waves. 
• The operation duration is about 30 - 60 minutes. 
• If needed for better visibility, a contrast agent will be inserted. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

• Tell the radiologist about possibility of pregnancy, kidney problems or metal implants.  
• Do not move during the scan for best results.