Shoulder MRI

High-resolution MRI of the shoulder joint performed on a 3T Siemens system, evaluating the rotator cuff tendons, glenoid labrum, biceps tendon, acromioclavicular joint, and glenohumeral articulation. The scan differentiates partial from full-thickness tendon tears and identifies labral pathology with superior contrast resolution.

Shoulder MRI at 3 Tesla provides a meaningful diagnostic upgrade over 1.5T imaging for the rotator cuff and labrum — the two structures that drive the majority of shoulder surgery decisions. The higher field strength improves fluid-tendon contrast, which is critical for distinguishing partial-thickness tears (which may be managed conservatively) from full-thickness tears (which often require surgical repair). HELIMED uses a dedicated shoulder coil positioned to optimise coverage of the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, and teres minor tendons. The standard protocol includes coronal oblique proton-density fat-saturated images (aligned along the supraspinatus axis), sagittal oblique T2, and axial T2 or PD sequences. Coronal oblique images are the primary view for cuff tear detection and measurement. Sagittal views assess the supraspinatus outlet and acromial morphology (Bigliani classification), while axial images evaluate the subscapularis, biceps tendon in the groove, and anterior-inferior labrum. For patients with suspected labral tears or instability, MR arthrography with intra-articular gadolinium injection can be arranged to distend the joint capsule and improve labral visualisation. Scan duration is approximately 25 to 35 minutes for standard protocol. The radiologist report addresses cuff integrity, fatty infiltration (Goutallier classification), muscle atrophy, labral morphology, and glenohumeral joint effusion.