Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Shoulder

MRI of the Shoulder, Shoulder MRI

What Affects the Test

Factors that can interfere with your test or the accuracy of the results include:

• Access to MRI scanners is not available in all areas. If you need an MRI scan, you may need to travel to a regional centre.
• Metal devices in your shoulder or chest from previous surgery. These can make the MRI pictures blurry and prevent your doctor from seeing what is wrong with your shoulder.
• Pregnancy. An MRI test usually is not done during pregnancy.
• Medical devices that use electronics, such as a pacemaker or medication infusion pump. The MRI magnet may cause problems with these devices.
• Inability to remain still during the test.
• Obesity. A person who is very overweight may not fit into the opening of some standard MRI machines.

Many modern medical devices that do not use electronics, such as heart valves, stents, or clips, can be safely placed in most MRI machines. But some newer MRI machines have stronger magnets. The safety of MRI scans with these stronger MRI magnets in people with medical devices is not completely known.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: June 1, 2007
Medical Review:	Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology
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