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Imaging update on the glenoid labrum: variants versus tears.
Cristy N Gustas1, Michael J Tuite2
1Department of Radiology, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Seminars in Musculoskeletal Radiology
|September 4, 2014
Summary
This review distinguishes normal shoulder labral variants from tears using imaging features. Understanding these variants is crucial for accurate diagnosis in shoulder imaging.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic imaging
- Radiology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Shoulder labral tears are common injuries.
- Accurate differentiation from normal variants is essential for appropriate patient management.
- Imaging plays a critical role in diagnosing shoulder pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review normal labral variants of the shoulder.
- To describe imaging features that differentiate variants from tears.
- To highlight secondary signs aiding in discrimination.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on shoulder labral variants.
- Analysis of imaging characteristics (shape, signal intensity, affixation).
- Categorization of variants into nonstandard appearances and classic unattached or absent labra.
Main Results:
- Labral variants present with diverse appearances in shape, signal, and glenoid rim attachment.
- Classic variants include partial/complete detachment from bone or absent labral segments.
- Secondary imaging signs can help distinguish variants from true tears.
Conclusions:
- Familiarity with normal labral variants is key to avoiding misdiagnosis of tears.
- Radiologists must recognize the spectrum of normal appearances.
- Accurate interpretation of shoulder imaging requires understanding these anatomical variations.
