MRI Shoulder Arthrogram

An MRI shoulder arthrogram, also known as an MRA, is a diagnostic imaging test that combines two procedures: the injection of contrast directly into the shoulder joint followed by a magnetic resonance imaging scan.

By introducing contrast fluid directly into the shoulder joint, it helps to distend the joint so it can be observed in greater detail, as the liquid seeps into small tears or lesions that would not be visible on a conventional scan.

What is detected in an MRI shoulder arthrogram?

This type of contrast-enhanced MRI mainly helps to identify and diagnose lesions in the shoulder joint with much greater precision than a conventional MRI.

The main injuries or conditions that can be identified using a shoulder MRA are the following:

• Labral tears: this is the most common injury. The labrum is a ring of fibrocartilage that helps to keep the head of the humerus stable. Thanks to the MRI shoulder arthrogram, labral degeneration, micro-tears, Bankart lesions or SLAP lesions can be detected.
• Rotator cuff injuries: micro-tears in the tendon, partial articular tears, subscapularis injuries, etc., can be detected.
• Injuries to the shoulder ligaments.
• Shoulder instability due to damage to the joint capsule.
• It can also detect the presence of intra-articular loose bodies (loose fragments of bone or cartilage within the joint).
• It allows the evaluation of changes in the joint following surgery.

What is the difference between an MRA and a joint MRI scan?

The main difference between an MRI shoulder arthrogram and a joint MRI scan lies in the use and technique of the contrast material used for the test.

Generally, a joint MRI does not require contrast to examine the joint, and if contrast is injected during the procedure, intravenous contrast is used.

In contrast, an MRA involves an intra-articular contrast injection—in this case, directly into the shoulder joint.

A joint MRI allows the general anatomy of the shoulder to be observed: muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones; whereas an MRI shoulder arthrogram allows small lesions and tears in the joint to be detected thanks to the precision provided by the intra-articular contrast.

No strict preparation is required prior to an MRI shoulder arthrogram; however, it is important to keep the following recommendations in mind:

1. It is advisable to fast from solid food for at least 3-4 hours before the appointment.
2. Arrive at the medical centre wearing comfortable clothing and avoid wearing metallic items: jewellery, watches, piercings, keys, etc.
3. Inform the radiographers if the patient has implants or a pacemaker.
4. It is also important to disclose any allergies to contrast agents or local anaesthetics.
5. In the event of a possible pregnancy, this must also be communicated. 
6. If the patient regularly takes anticoagulant medication, it is important to notify the team before the day of the test, as it will need to be stopped a few days prior to the appointment to prevent bleeding from the contrast injection.

On the day of the procedure, the patient arrives at the hospital at the scheduled appointment time and receives directions to the relevant radiology department.

1. Once in the department, a gown is provided for the patient to change into, and they must ensure they are not carrying any metallic objects such as jewellery, watches, keys, coins, mobile phones, etc.
2. Next, they are asked to make themselves comfortable on the table so the radiographers can prepare them for the procedure: first, they clean the shoulder area and apply a small amount of local anaesthetic to minimise discomfort from the contrast needle.
3. Once the local anaesthetic has taken effect, a fine needle is guided by ultrasound into the shoulder joint to inject a small amount of contrast.
4. The patient then lies on their back on the MRI scanner table to begin the examination.
5. During image acquisition, it is important that the patient remains completely still so that the images do not lose clarity. In some cases, the radiographer may give instructions to position the arm differently for additional images.
6. Throughout the process, the patient remains in direct contact with the radiographer should they require assistance or need to pause.
7. Once the required images are obtained, the test is completed.

The estimated length of the procedure is usually between 45 and 70 minutes.

The results of the procedure are available within 24-72 hours following the MRI shoulder arthrogram.

The price of an MRI shoulder arthrogram through Operarme starts from 389 €.

This price includes everything required for management, performance of the test and delivery of results. To undergo this diagnostic test, you can click on any of the Purchase test buttons.

Once you purchase the test, you will receive a voucher via email containing all necessary details, invoice and information.

Our Patient Service team at Operarme will contact you within 24 hours of purchasing your voucher to arrange a convenient appointment date to perform the diagnostic test.

Please note that a medical prescription is essential in order to undergo the arthrogram.

If you do not have a medical prescription for the test, our Patient Service team can assist you in obtaining one. You can contact our team by calling at +34 91 141 33 56 or complete the contact form so we can call you back.

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