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Updated: Dec 10, 2025
A Probing Device for Quantitatively Measuring the Mechanical Properties of Soft Tissues during Arthroscopy
Published on: May 1, 2020
Our initial experiences with MR arthrography
Imre Sallai1, Ádám Nagy1, Attila Szatmári1
1Általános Orvostudományi Kar, Ortopédiai Klinika,Semmelweis Egyetem, Budapest, Üllői út 78/B, II. emelet, 1082.
Introduction:
The gold standard method for shoulder surgery imaging is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The sensitivity of the conventional MRI for full thickness tears is way above 85%, for partial rotator cuff lesions this number is less than 40%. Diagnostic accuracy is equally low in detecting different variations of anterior labrum lesion and also in injury of the glenohumeral ligaments. Contrast agent given directly into the joint can improve these diagnostic inaccuracies.
Method:
We made the first shoulder joint related MR arthrography in February 2018 at the Semmelweis University. The studied period lasted for 17 months; during that time 29 examinations were performed. For the injection we used gadolinium-based contrast substance.
Results:
In the case of 26 patients (89.9%), the contrast substance had a good position and distended well. From all of the shoulder MRI examinations, 9 (31%) surgical interventions were made, and 8 surgical findings had the same diagnosis as the radiologic description.
Conclusion:
The contrast substance given into the intraarticular space makes it easier to identify and detect the structures in the joint. The injection under X-ray screening is safe, it is absorbed from the joint in short time, and so far - based on our experience - there has not been any complication. It can help to identify injuries which are difficult to diagnose with conventional MRI, and helps planning before surgery. Orv Hetil. 2020; 161(36): 1514-1521.
Insights
MR arthrography using contrast agents significantly improves the diagnostic accuracy of shoulder MRI, especially for partial rotator cuff tears and labrum injuries. This enhanced imaging technique aids in precise surgical planning and diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Radiology
Background:
- Conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has limitations in diagnosing partial rotator cuff lesions and specific labral or ligamentous injuries of the shoulder.
- Diagnostic accuracy for these conditions with standard MRI is often insufficient, impacting surgical planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of MR arthrography in improving the diagnostic accuracy of shoulder imaging.
- To assess the utility of intra-articular contrast agents in identifying subtle shoulder pathologies.
Main Methods:
- The study involved 29 shoulder MR arthrography examinations over 17 months, utilizing gadolinium-based contrast agents injected intra-articularly.
- Image acquisition was performed following contrast administration.
Main Results:
- MR arthrography demonstrated good contrast distribution in 89.9% of patients.
- Out of 9 surgical interventions, 8 showed concordance with the preoperative radiological diagnosis provided by MR arthrography.
Conclusions:
- Intra-articular contrast agents enhance the visualization of shoulder joint structures, improving diagnostic capabilities.
- MR arthrography is a safe and effective method for diagnosing difficult shoulder injuries, aiding in preoperative planning.
