New developments in magnetic resonance imaging techniques for shoulder instability in athletes

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging can be a very useful tool in the evaluation of instability in the athlete’s shoulder. Technical options of MR imaging, such as arthrography, higher power magnets, and shoulder positioning, have enhanced MR evaluation of the shoulder. This update discusses the application of new MR techniques to a variety of shoulder instability patterns, including anterior instability, posterior instability, and atraumatic multidirectional instability. Specific applications of MR imaging in the postoperative patient is discussed. Finally, we describe the future directions of MR imaging in the setting of shoulder instability.