MRI of the Shoulder

Magnetic resonance imaging of one shoulder, showing the rotator cuff tendons, the labrum, the joint capsule, the biceps tendon and the bone in detail. It is the usual examination for shoulder pain, weakness, restricted movement, suspected rotator cuff tears and instability after a dislocation. At MojaDiagnoza the shoulder is part of the flat single-joint price of 689 zł, performed on the centre's own scanner and usually without a referral.

An MRI of the shoulder gives a detailed picture of the complex soft-tissue anatomy around the joint, which is difficult to assess with X-ray alone. It demonstrates the four rotator cuff tendons, the glenoid labrum, the joint capsule and ligaments, the long head of the biceps tendon and the surrounding muscles and bone, making it the standard scan for investigating shoulder pain, weakness, a painful arc of movement, clicking or catching, suspected rotator cuff tears and ongoing instability after a dislocation. At MojaDiagnoza the scan is acquired on the centre's own MRI system, with the shoulder placed in a dedicated coil while you lie still for the imaging, usually around fifteen to twenty-five minutes. Headphones or ear protection are provided as the scanner is noisy while it works. The shoulder falls under the flat single-joint price of 689 zł, the same rate the centre charges for the knee, elbow, wrist, ankle and one hip joint. Where a more detailed look inside the joint is needed, the radiologist may advise an arthrogram with contrast, which is discussed separately. A radiology specialist describes the study and the report and images are made available through the RadPoint online patient portal, typically within around 96 hours. A standard MRI safety questionnaire is reviewed first, as some implants, pacemakers or metal fragments can make the examination unsuitable.