MRI versus radiography of acromioclavicular joint dislocation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Radiology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries are common, impacting shoulder function.
• The Rockwood classification, based on clinical and radiographic assessment, guides AC joint injury management.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers detailed visualization of soft tissues, including ligaments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare MRI findings with radiographic assessments for acromioclavicular joint dislocations.
• To evaluate the utility of MRI in classifying AC joint injuries using the Rockwood system.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 44 patients with suspected unilateral AC joint dislocation.
• All patients underwent digital radiography and 1-T MRI.
• Rockwood classification applied to both radiography and MRI, with an adapted system for MRI ligament evaluation.

Main Results:

• Concordance between radiography and MRI Rockwood classification in 52.2% of patients.
• MRI reclassified injuries to less severe types in 36.4% and more severe types in 11.4%.
• Additional ligamentous lesions identified in 25% of patients with MRI.

Conclusions:

• MRI findings frequently alter the Rockwood classification determined by radiography for AC joint injuries.
• MRI provides valuable ligamentous information that can influence clinical management decisions.
• Integrating MRI with clinical assessment and radiography enhances the diagnosis and treatment planning of AC joint dislocations.