Double-echo MPGR imaging of the rotator cuff

T2-weighted gradient recalled (T2*) sequences are often used in place of T2 sequences when imaging the shoulder. The main advantages of these sequences are the decreased imaging time, the better demonstration of cartilage disorders, and the added tissue information that can be garnered due to the increased sensitivity to magnetic susceptibility with T2* sequences. Unfortunately, one drawback of T2* sequences that is less apparent with spin-echo techniques is the sensitivity of tissue close to the surface coil to undergo diffusely increased signal throughout an area in close proximity to the coil (coil-burnout). This phenomenon is a very bothersome artifact that can obscure tissue differentiation in this area. Fluid detection, especially in the subacromial bursa, can be especially difficult to diagnose in the presence of coil-burnout. We describe MR imaging of the shoulder using double-echo T2-weighted multiplanar gradient recalled sequences, which allow better evaluation of shoulder pathology.