Most shoulder MRIs are performed without contrast and provide excellent detail for rotator cuff, tendons, and muscles. Contrast (gadolinium or an MR arthrogram) is used for suspected labral tears, subtle cartilage or ligament injuries, postoperative assessment, or when a noncontrast study is inconclusive. Contrast has small risks (allergic reaction, gadolinium retention) and is avoided in severe renal impairment.

A shoulder MRI with contrast is usually not painful. The scan itself is painless, though lying still in a narrow, noisy machine can be uncomfortable. The IV insertion and contrast injection may cause brief stinging, pressure, warmth or a metallic taste; these sensations typically fade quickly. Serious reactions are rare. Tell staff about allergies, kidney problems, or claustrophobia so they can take precautions.

A shoulder MRI with contrast generally takes about 30–60 minutes. The imaging sequences usually run 20–40 minutes; contrast adds IV placement, injection and a short wait of roughly 5–15 minutes. Including registration, positioning and brief post-scan checks, total time at the facility is commonly about 45–75 minutes, so plan accordingly.

Most shoulder MRIs don’t require intravenous dye; standard MRI adequately shows rotator cuff tears, bursitis and tendinopathy. Contrast (gadolinium) or MR arthrography is used selectively for subtle labral or cartilage injuries, postoperative evaluation, suspected infection or tumor, or when prior scans are inconclusive. Discuss benefits and risks (including kidney-related precautions) with your clinician to decide if contrast is necessary.

For a shoulder MR arthrogram, the skin is cleaned and a local anesthetic is given. Under imaging guidance (fluoroscopy, ultrasound or CT) a needle is placed into the glenohumeral joint; correct placement is often confirmed with a small X‑ray contrast or aspiration. A diluted gadolinium solution is then injected into the joint (and sometimes the subacromial space) before the MRI.

Costs vary widely by country and facility. In the U.S., a shoulder MRI with contrast typically runs $1,000–$3,000 out-of-pocket (can be higher). In the U.K., it’s free on the public system but private scans cost about £250–£600. In India, expect roughly ₹4,000–₹15,000. Insurance coverage, facility type, and radiologist/report fees affect the final price.