Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Brachial Plexus Without Contrast
MRI of the brachial plexus without contrast is an imaging study used to evaluate the network of nerves that controls movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand.
["This MRI produces detailed images of the brachial plexus and nearby structures without using intravenous contrast."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30654-8
- Short code
- MR Brachial plexus WO contr
- Synonyms
- MR Brachial plexus 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 a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the brachial plexus, a network of nerves extending from the neck through the shoulder and into the arm. It provides detailed images of the nerves and nearby muscles, bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues without intravenous contrast.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this scan to investigate arm or hand weakness, numbness, tingling, pain, or loss of sensation. It may also be used to evaluate a suspected nerve injury, compression, inflammation, tumor, or other condition affecting the brachial plexus.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table inside an MRI scanner while images are taken. The scan may include several positions and body regions, and it is generally painless, although the scanner can be noisy and may feel confined.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging facility. You may be asked to remove items containing metal, such as jewelry, watches, hairpins, and cards with magnetic strips. Tell the care team if you have a pacemaker, other implanted device, claustrophobia, or any other medical condition that could affect the scan.
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.
The images may show nerve compression, swelling, injury, scarring, or a mass affecting the brachial plexus. They may also reveal abnormalities in nearby tissues that could explain arm or hand symptoms. The findings should be interpreted by a radiologist and considered together with your symptoms, examination, and other tests.
Short name
Brachial Plexus MRI Without Contrast
Frequently asked questions
Does this scan use contrast?
Is a brachial plexus MRI painful?
What symptoms can this MRI evaluate?
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