Technical Update in Conventional and Arthrographic MRI of the Shoulder

MR is the imaging modality of choice for the evaluation of the shoulder, offering superior soft-tissue contrast while acquiring images in multiple planes. Various factors affect shoulder MR including the strength of the magnetic field, position of the patient, selection of imaging planes, and use of contrast. In this chapter, the technique and protocol for conventional noncontrast MRI as well as direct/indirect arthrography, MR appearance of normal and variant anatomy, evaluation of the postoperative shoulder, and advanced techniques including 3D and biochemical imaging are described.