Ultrasound of glenoid labrum with MR arthrographic correlation

Ultrasound (US) is a reliable non-invasive method to image the rotator cuff tendons. Even though glenoid labral pathology is common, it is not routinely looked at as part of the shoulder ultrasound protocol. Currently, the gold standard for labral imaging remains MR arthrography. However, given the rather long waiting list and cost implications, US may be used as a modality to quickly screen the shoulder for gross labral pathology. Whilst there is relative paucity of the literature outlining labral pathology on US, there is none correlating sonographic and corresponding MRI appearances. We present a pictorial review highlighting scanning positioning, US and corresponding MRI appearances of a normal labrum and various labral pathologies. We discuss useful scanning tips and characteristic US signs which can help the radiologist.