Shoulder magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive, radiation-free imaging exam that allows a detailed assessment of the internal structures of the shoulder, including muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons and cartilage. It is indicated for the diagnosis of conditions such as tendinitis, rotator cuff tears, bursitis and joint instability.
What is a Shoulder MRI?
Shoulder magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to produce high-resolution images of the soft tissues and bony structures of the shoulder joint. It is particularly useful for identifying injuries that are not visible on X-rays or CT scans.
What is the price of a Shoulder MRI?
The price of a shoulder MRI is 275€, when performed on a private basis. However, it can also be performed through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: If the shoulder MRI is performed under ADSE, the patient only pays a fee of 30€;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers.
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. For a shoulder MRI, the price through protocol is 220€.
The price varies depending on the healthcare system or insurance you wish to use.
Find out more about the price of MRI exams.
How is it performed?
The patient is positioned lying on their back or slightly on their side, with the arm alongside the body inside a dedicated shoulder coil. The positioning is adapted depending on whether it is an MRI of the right or left shoulder, always ensuring the best access to the joint being examined.
The arm must remain still during the exam.
The MRI scanner is open at both ends.
In some cases, intravenous contrast may be administered, particularly if there is suspicion of a complex intra-articular lesion or for the assessment of synovial changes.
During the exam, it is essential to remain still.
Earplugs are provided to reduce the perception of scanner noise.
The duration varies depending on the protocol, usually between 25 and 35 minutes, and may be longer if contrast is used.
What does it detect?
A shoulder MRI allows accurate identification of:
- Tendinitis and tendinopathy of the rotator cuff (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis and teres minor);
- Partial or complete tears of the rotator cuff tendons;
- Subacromial or subdeltoid bursitis;
- Lesions of the biceps tendon and instability of the humeral head;
- Changes in the glenohumeral cartilage and glenoid labrum;
- Bone irregularities, small fractures or bone marrow oedema;
- Subacromial impingement syndrome and other mechanical alterations;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Your doctor may request a shoulder MRI in cases of:
- Persistent shoulder pain or functional impairment without a clear diagnosis;
- Limitation of movement, weakness or a sensation of clicking or popping;
- Instability or recurrent dislocation;
- Post-trauma or assessment of surgical sequelae;
- Surgical planning or image-guided local treatment;
- Post-surgical evaluation;
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for a Shoulder MRI
Before undergoing an MRI at NRD, please consider the following:
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper copy) | You must bring the exam prescription in paper form. |
| Fasting | Most MRI exams do not require fasting. In cases with contrast, fasting for 3 hours is usually necessary (confirmed when booking). |
| Early arrival | Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. |
| Medication | You may take essential and unavoidable medication with a minimum amount of water. |
| Metal objects | Remove all metal objects (e.g. earrings, bracelets, necklaces, piercings, hairpins, removable prostheses, etc.). |
| Pregnancy | Inform the NRD healthcare professional if you are pregnant. |
| Exams / Tests / Info | Bring previous imaging exams, relevant clinical information and recent laboratory tests. |
| Glucose monitoring implant | Do not place the implant, as it will have to be removed before the exam. |
| Make-up | Do not wear make-up, as some products may affect the exam. |
| Valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses | If you have valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses, bring proof describing and specifying the material composition. |
| Hearing aids | Inform us if you use a hearing aid, as it must be removed before the exam. |
| Dental prostheses | Inform us if you use a dental prosthesis, as it must be removed before the exam. Also inform us if you have dental implants. |
| Orthodontic appliances | Inform us if you wear orthodontic appliances. A test may be necessary to assess compatibility with MRI. |
| Pacemakers and implantable devices | NRD does not perform MRI exams on people with pacemakers or implantable devices (e.g. cochlear implant), and it is recommended that the exam be carried out in a hospital setting. |
Throughout the MRI exam, you will be continuously monitored by the NRD imaging technologist responsible for your exam. An alert system will also be at your disposal, which you can activate if needed.
You should remain still during the exam to ensure high-quality images.
The entire NRD team will be at your disposal to answer any questions that may arise.
After the exam, you can return to your usual daily activities.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the MRI results within 7 days after the exam, by email or in paper form at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take a CD with the images with you.
Where can you have a shoulder MRI?
A shoulder MRI can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, r/c, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (near Praça de Espanha)