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Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Left Upper Extremity, Without Contrast

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

MRI of the left arm and its joints uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images without injected contrast.

Quick summary

["This MRI evaluates the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues of the left arm without using injected contrast."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
38832-2
Short code
MR UE-L WO contr
Synonyms
MR UE-L 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 an MRI of the left upper extremity, which includes the shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist, or hand area being examined. It uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images without injected contrast.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this MRI to evaluate persistent pain, swelling, weakness, numbness, an injury, or another unexplained symptom. It can provide detailed information about bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, muscles, nerves, and soft tissues.

How is the test performed?

You will lie on a padded table that moves into the MRI scanner. The technologist may position your arm in a special coil and ask you to remain still while several images are taken. The scanner can be noisy, and communication is usually available through a microphone or button.

How do I prepare for the test?

Remove jewelry, watches, hair accessories, and other metal objects from the area before the scan. Tell the care team about any implanted devices, metal fragments, allergies, or possible pregnancy, because these factors may affect MRI safety or the examination.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

MRI Left Upper Extremity Without Contrast

Frequently asked questions

Is contrast dye used for this MRI?
No injected contrast is used for this examination. If the radiologist determines that contrast is needed, a separate MRI with contrast may be arranged.
Does an MRI use radiation?
No. MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves rather than ionizing radiation, so it does not expose you to X-ray radiation.
What if I have metal in my body or a medical implant?
Tell the MRI team about every implant, pacemaker, metal fragment, or other metal device before the scan. Some devices are MRI-safe under specific conditions, while others may require a different imaging method.
  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