[Sonography as a screening method in suspected rupture of the rotator cuff]

We have found ultrasonography of the shoulder in differentiating between normal rotator cuff and rotator cuff lesion according to trauma a very helpful method. In comparison to arthrography it is a quick and painless method without any risk. Whereas other authors report a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 94% in shoulder disease we recommend ultrasonography in acute shoulder trauma as a screening method. Pathological findings in ultrasonography will make the decision for arthrography easy. The major diagnostic pitfall is the calcified tendon of the rotator cuff.