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Shoulder MRI at Gateway Diagnostic Imaging

Advanced Shoulder MRI Imaging Services in Dallas-Fort Worth

Gateway Diagnostic Imaging provides state-of-the-art shoulder MRI scans to help diagnose and evaluate shoulder pain, injuries, and conditions. Experienced radiologists and advanced MRI technology deliver precise imaging results to guide your treatment plan.

What Is a Shoulder MRI?

A shoulder MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging test that uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the structures in your shoulder. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, a shoulder MRI provides exceptional visualization of soft tissues including:

  • Rotator cuff muscles and tendons
  • Shoulder ligaments and cartilage
  • Joint capsule and labrum
  • Bones and bone marrow
  • Blood vessels and nerves
  • Surrounding muscle tissue

A shoulder MRI scan produces high-resolution images that help your doctor identify injuries, inflammation, or degenerative changes that may not be visible on other imaging studies.

Why is a Shoulder MRI Important?

Your doctor may recommend a shoulder MRI to diagnose various shoulder problems. Common shoulder conditions diagnosed with MRI include:

 

Rotator Cuff Injuries:

  • Rotator cuff tears (partial or complete)
  • Rotator cuff tendinitis
  • Rotator cuff impingement syndrome

Shoulder Joint Problems:

  • Labral tears (SLAP lesions)
  • Shoulder dislocation or instability
  • Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
  • Shoulder arthritis

Other Shoulder Conditions:

  • Bicep tendon tears or inflammation
  • Bursitis
  • Bone fractures or stress injuries
  • Tumors or masses
  • Infection

Treatment Planning and Monitoring:

Shoulder MRI results help your healthcare provider:

  • Determine the extent and severity of injuries
  • Plan surgical or non-surgical treatments
  • Monitor healing progress after treatment
  • Evaluate the success of previous procedures

What to Expect During Your Shoulder MRI

Before Your Scan

Before your shoulder MRI, you’ll need to remove all metal objects including jewelry, watches, and clothing with metal fasteners. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown if your clothing contains any metal components. It’s important to inform the technologist about any medical implants or devices you may have, as these can affect the safety and quality of your scan.

During the Scan

During your shoulder MRI, you’ll lie on a comfortable exam table, typically on your back, and your arm may be positioned in a specific way to optimize imaging of your shoulder structures. The table will slide into the MRI machine, which is a large tube with an opening at both ends. The scan typically takes 30-45 minutes to complete, during which you’ll hear loud knocking or thumping sounds as the machine operates. It’s essential that you remain as still as possible throughout the scan to ensure clear, diagnostic-quality images.

Contrast Enhancement

Some shoulder MRI exams may require contrast material injected through an IV to enhance certain structures and improve diagnostic accuracy.

How to Prepare for Your Shoulder MRI

Safety Screening:

  • Complete the MRI safety questionnaire thoroughly
  • Inform us about any metal implants, pacemakers, or medical devices
  • Report and previous surgeries or metal fragments in your body
  • Let us know if you are pregnant or possibly pregnant

Medications:

  • Continue taking your regular medications unless instructed otherwise
  • If contrast is needed, inform us about kidney problems or previous contrast reactions

What to Wear:

  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing without metal
  • Avoid clothing with zippers, buttons, or underwire bras
  • Athletic wear or hospital gowns work best

Arrival Time:

  • Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment
  • Bring your insurance card and photo ID
  • Bring any previous shoulder imaging studies for comparison

Managing Anxiety:

  • Practice relaxation techniques
  • Ask about open MRI options

Why Choose Gateway Diagnostic Imaging for Your Shoulder MRI?

Advanced Technology

Our facilities feature 3T MRI scanners that deliver superior image quality for precise shoulder imaging. We utilize fast imaging sequences to reduce your scan time while maintaining diagnostic accuracy. For patients who experience claustrophobia, we offer open MRI options to ensure your comfort during the exam.

Expert Care

Your shoulder MRI will be interpreted by board-certified radiologists who specialize in musculoskeletal imaging, ensuring expert analysis of your results. Our experienced MRI technologists are trained to provide personalized patient care and comfort throughout your visit, making your experience as pleasant as possible.

Convenient Services

We offer flexible scheduling options including early morning, evening and weekend appointments to accommodate your busy lifestyle. With multiple locations for your convenience, we make it easy to access our services. We accept most major insurance plans and offer a financial assistance program for those who qualify.

FAQs

Is a shoulder MRI painful?

The MRI scan itself is painless. You may experience some discomfort from lying still or from positioning your shoulder, especially if you have significant pain or limited mobility.

How long does a shoulder MRI take?

Most shoulder MRI scans take 30-45 minutes, though this can vary depending on the specific sequences needed and whether contrast is used.

Can I have a shoulder MRI with metal implants?

Many metal implants are MRI-compatible, but this must be determined on a case-by-case basis. Always inform us about any metal in your body during scheduling.

Do I need a referral for a shoulder MRI?

Yes, a shoulder MRI requires a physician’s order. Your doctor will determine if this imaging study is appropriate for your condition.

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