Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Shoulder: Interpretation of Common Orthopaedic Injuries

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is frequently obtained to assess for pathology in the setting of shoulder pain and dysfunction. MRI of the shoulder provides diagnostic information that helps optimize patient management and surgical planning. Both general and subspecialized orthopaedic surgeons routinely order and review shoulder MRIs in practice. Therefore, familiarity with the MRI appearance of common shoulder pathologies is important. This document reviews the most common shoulder pathologies using a standardized MRI interpretative approach. Instructional videos demonstrating a musculoskeletal radiologist interpreting normal and abnormal shoulder MRIs are also provided.