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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Upper Extremity Joint — Without Contrast

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

An MRI creates detailed pictures of a joint in the arm or hand without using injected contrast material.

Quick summary

["This MRI evaluates the structure and tissues of an arm or hand joint without intravenous contrast."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36500-7
Short code
MR UE joint WO contr
Synonyms
MR UE joint WO contr
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mr
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) examination of a joint in the upper extremity, such as the shoulder, elbow, wrist, or hand. It produces detailed images of bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues without injected contrast material.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this MRI to evaluate persistent joint pain, swelling, stiffness, trauma, or reduced movement. It can help identify problems involving bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, marrow, or soft-tissue masses.

How is the test performed?

You will lie on a table that moves into the MRI scanner. The scanner uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create images, and you may hear knocking or clicking noises. No intravenous contrast is used for this examination.

How do I prepare for the test?

Tell the imaging team about any implanted medical devices, metal fragments, pregnancy, or claustrophobia. Remove jewelry, watches, hairpins, and other metal objects. Fasting is usually unnecessary for an MRI without contrast, but follow the imaging center's specific instructions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal findings may indicate a bone or joint injury, cartilage damage, arthritis, tendon or ligament disease, bone-marrow changes, or a soft-tissue mass. The radiologist interprets the images in relation to your symptoms and other examinations. A normal MRI does not exclude every possible cause of pain or dysfunction.

Short name

MRI of an upper-extremity joint without contrast

Frequently asked questions

Does this MRI use contrast material?
No. This test is performed without injected contrast, so there is generally no need for an IV line or a contrast-related wait afterward.
Will I feel anything during the MRI?
The test should not be painful, but the scanner is noisy and the confined space may feel uncomfortable. Tell the technologist if you are anxious, claustrophobic, or unable to remain still.
How soon will the results be available?
A radiologist will review the images and send a report to your ordering clinician. The timing of your results and any additional discussion or treatment depend on your healthcare provider's process.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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