MRI Brachial Plexus

MRI Brachial Plexus is the gold-standard scan for seeing the network of nerves that control shoulder, arm and hand movement. At Cadabams Diagnostics, we combine ultra-high-field 3T MRI technology with subspecialty neuroradiology expertise to deliver detailed pictures in under 45 minutes, guiding faster diagnosis and treatment planning.

• STIR sequences – suppress fat to reveal oedema or inflammation
• T1-weighted images – display anatomy and marrow changes
• T2-weighted images – detect water-content lesions, neuroma, tumour
• Slice thickness ≤3 mm – ensures nerve root visibility
• Oblique sagittal plane – follows nerve course from C5–T1 roots

1. Traumatic Injury Assessment – avulsion, rupture or neuroma formation
2. Tumour Detection – schwannoma, neurofibroma, metastasis
3. Inflammatory Neuropathies – Parsonage-Turner syndrome, CIDP
4. Compressive Lesions – cervical rib, fibrous bands, hypertrophic muscle

• 100 % non-invasive – no needles unless contrast is needed
• Zero radiation – suitable for repeat follow-ups
• Soft-tissue contrast superior to CT – nerves vs vessels clearly separated
• Guides targeted therapy – surgery, nerve blocks or physiotherapy

1. Fasting & Medication

• Fasting not required unless contrast is planned (fast 4 h)
• Continue routine medications; inform staff of metformin or insulin

2. Metal Screening

• Remove jewellery, hearing aids, hairpins
• Inform technologist about implants, tattoos with metallic ink
• Pregnancy test for women of child-bearing age if contrast ordered

Doctor’s prescription with detailed clinical history Prior imaging (X-ray, ultrasound or EMG reports) for comparison Insurance pre-authorisation if applicable Completed MRI safety questionnaire

• Early morning slots: less crowded, ideal for anxious patients
• Follow-up after trauma: 3–6 weeks post-injury allows oedema to settle
• Elective cases: schedule before any planned surgery for surgical mapping

1. Arrival & Registration – verify prescription and safety form
2. Changing Room – change into MRI-safe gown, remove metals
3. Positioning – lie supine, head-first; arms at sides or above head
4. Coil Placement – dedicated neck-shoulder coil for optimal signal
5. Scanning – 6–8 sequences; remain still; listen to music via headphones
6. Contrast (if needed) – IV gadolinium injection halfway through
7. Completion – total 30–45 min; immediate image review by radiologist

• Pregnancy: inform staff; gadolinium avoided in 1st trimester
• Contrast allergy: screen for prior reactions; pre-medication if needed
• Kidney function: eGFR <30 mL/min? alternative imaging considered

MRI Safety Considerations

• No radiation—safe for adults and children
• Contraindications: cardiac pacemaker, cochlear implant, certain aneurysm clips
• Claustrophobia: open-bore or sedation options available

Diagnostic Limitations

• Microscopic nerve damage may not appear immediately after trauma
• Metallic artefacts from prior surgery can obscure detail
• Obesity or severe scoliosis may reduce image quality on older 1.5T systems