Imaging techniques for the evaluation of glenohumeral instability

The ability to image lesions associated with glenohumeral instability has evolved significantly over the past 2 decades. In the past, several imaging techniques ranging from conventional radiography to computerized axial arthrography and, most recently, to magnetic resonance imaging have been used to depict various labral abnormalities. In most instances, conventional radiography remains the initial imaging study for evaluating the patient with persistent shoulder pain and instability. Recently, however, magnetic resonance arthrography has been firmly established as the imaging modality of choice for demonstrating specific soft tissue abnormalities associated with glenohumeral instability. This article will review the role of various imaging modalities including conventional radiography, conventional arthrography, computerized axial arthrography, magnetic resonance imaging, and magnetic resonance arthrography. Emphasis will be placed on the role of magnetic resonance arthrography as it pertains to the lesions associated with glenohumeral instability. A thorough discussion of the appearance of normal anatomic structures, anatomic variations that mimic abnormality, and the various lesions associated with glenohumeral instability will be provided.