Shoulder MRI scan

What is an MRI scan?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves which then are sent to a computer to produce detailed pictures of the body. MRI doesn’t use radiation. It can be used to examine various parts of the shoulder including bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles and vessels. Unlike other methods such as an X-ray or CT scan, MRI offers very detailed images. It is non-invasive and usually takes between 15 and 90 minutes.

How does MRI work?

Preparation:

· If you have any prescribed medication, make sure to take them. There are no dietary restrictions before an MRI scan.

· If you have claustrophobia or anxiety, you can ask your doctor to prescribe a mild sedative before the exam as you must not move. Some children and infants may also require sedation to prevent movement.

· No jewellery, phones or credit cards should be carried into the procedure room. If you have an implant, or a pace maker, please, inform your doctor.

· You must inform your doctor if you are pregnant or if you have a tattoo as some tattoo ink may have traces of metal.

Procedure:

· You may be asked to change into a hospital gown, depending upon the type of MRI you are receiving.

· The procedure is painless. The MRI unit looks like a cylinder-shaped tube surrounded by a circular magnet. You will be asked to lie on the movable table. You will enter it headfirst to scan the shoulder. Small metallic devices that contain coils may be placed around your shoulder to improve the quality of the images.

· The machine can also be a little noisy but you will be given earplugs or headphones to reduce the sound.

· The radiographer will then perform the exam through a computer outside the room. You will be supervised at all times. The radiographer will be able to see, hear and talk to you through the intercom. 

· Some MRI scans require an injection of contrast dye. This shows certain tissues and blood vessels in greater detail. However, this can cause side effects such as feeling sick, rash, and headaches. This is not recommended to people who have kidney disease.

· After the scan, you can resume normal daily activities. However, if you have a sedative, you must have a relative to take you home. 

Benefits:

· An MRI scan is a non-invasive examination

· No exposure to radiation

· It is helpful for diagnosing conditions, with muscle and bone abnormalities in the shoulder.

· It can also help determine if shoulder surgery is required.

Risks:

· The MRI exam poses almost no risks if correct safety guidelines are followed. However, there might be side effects to the contrast dye.

References:

• Cancer Research UK (2020) Cancer Research UK Available at: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-in-general/tests/mri-scan (Accessed 15 October 2020).

• Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging (2020) Available at: https://radiology.ucsf.edu/patient-care/prepare/mri. (Accessed 15 October 2020)

• Healthline (2020) Healthline Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/shoulder-mri-scan (Accessed 15 October 2020).

• iRefer Guidelines https://www.irefer.org.uk/guidelines [Accessed 10 November 2020]

• NHS (2020) NHS Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/mri-scan/what-happens/ (Accessed 15 October 2020).

• RadiologyInfo (2020)  RadiologyInfo Available at: https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=shouldermr (Accessed 15 October 2020).