Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Right Brachial Plexus with Contrast
An MRI uses magnetic fields and a contrast medicine to create detailed images of the right brachial plexus, the network of nerves supplying the shoulder, arm, and hand.
["This imaging test helps evaluate problems involving the right brachial plexus and nearby nerves and tissues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36516-3
- Short code
- MR Brachial plexus-R WO contr
- Synonyms
- MR Brachial plexus-R WO contr
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This is an MRI of the right brachial plexus, a network of nerves between the neck and shoulder that provides sensation and movement to the arm and hand. Intravenous contrast may be used to make certain tissues and abnormalities easier to see.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test to investigate persistent arm pain, weakness, numbness, or difficulty moving the shoulder, elbow, wrist, or hand. It can also help assess nerve injury, inflammation, compression, scarring, or a nearby mass.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table inside the MRI scanner while images of the right brachial plexus are recorded. If contrast is required, it is usually given through a vein in your arm, and the scan may take 30 to 60 minutes or longer.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions and tell the staff about metal implants, medication patches, pregnancy, kidney disease, or prior reactions to MRI contrast. You may need to avoid eating or drinking for a short period if contrast will be used.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate nerve damage, inflammation, compression, a mass, or another condition affecting the right brachial plexus or surrounding tissues. The results should be interpreted together with your symptoms, physical examination, and other imaging or laboratory tests.
Short name
Right Brachial Plexus MRI with Contrast
Frequently asked questions
Does this MRI require contrast?
Is MRI safe with metal implants or devices?
What can this test show that a routine arm MRI may miss?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy