MR Arthrogram Shoulder Scan
A private MR arthrogram shoulder scan uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of your shoulder joint and surrounding tissues, without using ionising radiation. It's often recommended to get a clearer view of the structures within the joint, especially after injury or for persistent pain.
Written by the MyScanHub content team4 minutes reading time
From
£695
All-inclusive. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
- Consultant radiologists
- CQC registered
- GDPR compliant
- Report in 3 working days
What is an MR Arthrogram Shoulder Scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses powerful magnets and radiofrequency waves — with no ionising radiation — to create high-resolution cross-sectional images.
An MR Arthrogram Shoulder Scan allows your radiologist to examine:
- Rotator cuff tendons (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, subscapularis)
- Glenoid labrum (cartilage rim of the shoulder socket)
- Shoulder capsule and ligaments (e.g., glenohumeral ligaments)
- Articular cartilage of the humeral head and glenoid
- Biceps tendon and its sheath
- Bone surfaces within the joint
MRI offers unmatched soft-tissue contrast and is widely used in specialist care for diagnosing and following-up disease of the arthrogram shoulder.
Is this scan right for you?
Common reasons for having this scan include:
- Persistent shoulder pain, especially with movement
- A clicking, popping, or grinding sensation in the shoulder
- Instability or a feeling of the shoulder giving way
- Reduced range of motion or stiffness
- Pain following a shoulder injury or dislocation
- Symptoms not improving with conservative treatment
- Suspected rotator cuff tear
- Concerns about labral damage
What an MR Arthrogram Shoulder Scan can find
MRI can identify:
- Tears or fraying of the rotator cuff tendons
- Labral tears (e.g., SLAP tears)
- Cartilage damage or wear
- Ligament injuries
- Inflammation within the joint
- Fluid collections or effusions
- Issues with the biceps tendon
Preparing for your MR Arthrogram Shoulder Scan
On the day of your scan:
- Remove all jewellery and metal objects before entering the scanning room.
- Wear comfortable clothing; you may be asked to change into a gown.
- Eat and take your usual medications unless advised otherwise by our team.
Please notify the team if:
- If you have a pacemaker, defibrillator, or certain types of aneurysm clips.
- If you have any metal implants, screws, plates, or fragments in your body, especially near the shoulder or in your eyes.
- If you are pregnant, particularly in the first trimester.
- If you experience severe claustrophobia; we can discuss options to help you feel more comfortable.
Your report
Every MRI at MyScanHub is reported by a GMC-registered consultant radiologist. Your written report is delivered securely to your patient portal within 3 working days.
You can download the report and your images from your patient account to share with your GP, physiotherapist or specialist, or add a GP consultation to talk the findings through. How to open and share your results.
Why consider a private MRI scan for the arthrogram shoulder?
When you need answers quickly — or when prior imaging has been inconclusive — a private MRI at MyScanHub gives you timely access and specialist reporting without the wait.
Private scan benefits include:
- Fast access — same-day or next-day appointments, no waiting list
- Consultant radiologist report within 3 working days
- Fully-private, CQC-registered, GDPR-compliant imaging centre
- Secure online access to your report and images, easy to share with your GP or specialist
Smarter scanning. Proactive health. Peace of mind.
Step 1
Choose
Pick a scan or a programme. No GP referral required.
Step 2
Book
Select a time online — same-day availability most weekdays.
Step 3
Scan
Be seen by consultants at our Dartford, Kent imaging centre.
Step 4
Results
Consultant-led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Frequently asked questions
What is an MR arthrogram and how is it different from a standard MRI?
An MR arthrogram involves injecting a small amount of contrast agent directly into the shoulder joint before the MRI scan. This contrast material helps to highlight the joint structures, such as the labrum and cartilage, providing a more detailed view than a standard MRI alone.
Will the injection of contrast into my shoulder hurt?
The injection is performed by a trained clinician using imaging guidance for accuracy. You may feel a brief sting or pressure during the injection, similar to other injections. We aim to make the process as comfortable as possible.
How long does the MR arthrogram shoulder scan take?
The entire appointment, including the contrast injection and the MRI scan itself, typically takes around 45-60 minutes. The MRI scanning part usually lasts between 30-45 minutes.
When will I get my results?
Your scan images will be reviewed by a UK-certified Consultant Radiologist. You can expect to receive your detailed report within 3 working days via your secure online patient portal. You can then choose to share this with your GP or another clinician.
Do I need a GP referral?
No — MyScanHub accepts self-referral for most scans. Our consultant radiologists review every case. Some scans (e.g. contrast studies) do need a referring clinician; we'll let you know at booking.
When will I get my report?
Written reports from a GMC-registered consultant radiologist are delivered within 3 working days of your scan, often sooner. You can access the report — and the imaging — through your patient account at myscanhub.com.
Where is the clinic?
Our imaging centre is at Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford, Kent (DA9 9ST), in the Guildhall Outer Car Park — free parking, a few minutes from junction 2 of the M25 and the A2. We're open Monday to Saturday 8am–9pm and Sunday 10am–5pm. Full directions are sent with your booking confirmation.
Ready to book your MR Arthrogram Shoulder Scan?
Book online in minutes. Same-day and next-day slots available most weekdays in Dartford, Kent. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
At our clinic in Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford: free parking, open seven days. How to find us · All private MRI scans in Dartford & Kent