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Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Right Upper Extremity — Without Contrast

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

An MRI of the right upper extremity without IV contrast creates detailed images of bones and soft tissues to evaluate injuries or other abnormalities.

Quick summary

["This MRI uses no injected contrast and provides detailed images of the right arm to help evaluate bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36459-6
Short code
MR UE-R WO contr
Synonyms
MR UE-R 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 examination of the right upper extremity, which may include the shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist, or hand. It produces detailed images without injecting a contrast agent.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this MRI to investigate persistent pain, swelling, weakness, trauma, or a suspected injury involving bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, or muscles. It may also be used when other imaging does not clearly explain the symptoms.

How is the test performed?

You will lie on a table that moves into a large MRI scanner. The right arm will be positioned for images of the specified area, and you must remain still during the scan. The scanner may make loud knocking or clicking sounds, and the examination usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.

How do I prepare for the test?

Remove jewelry, watches, hair accessories, and other metal objects from the area being examined. Tell the imaging team about any implanted electronic devices, metal fragments, prior surgery, pregnancy, or severe claustrophobia, and follow all instructions provided by the facility.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Right upper-extremity MRI without contrast

Frequently asked questions

Will I receive contrast for this MRI?
No contrast is used for the examination as named. If your clinician determines that contrast-enhanced images are also needed, the facility may perform an additional examination or discuss a different order.
Is an MRI painful?
The scan itself is generally painless, but it can be uncomfortable if you must remain still or if the scanner feels confined. You may hear loud tapping, clicking, or other noises during the examination.
Can I have metal implants or jewelry in the right arm?
Jewelry and removable metal objects should be taken off before the scan. Implanted devices or metal fragments must be reviewed by the MRI team because some can make the examination unsafe or affect image quality.
  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