[Value and limits of shoulder ultrasonography]

A report is given on our experiences with approximate 500 soft tissue sonographies of the shoulder. Since about 2 years, all clinically not defineable shoulder pain conditions are submitted to a sonographic examination. We employ a 7.5 MHz linear sonoemitter. The method of examination includes a static and dynamic technique of examination as well as a comparison of the contralateral side. All structures are visualised in two planes and documented on magnetic tape. In view of the intraoperative situs, we want to demonstrate, first, the possibility of a misinterpretation of the preoperative sonographic findings, second, the limits of this method of examination.