High resolution computed tomography of the cadaveric sternoclavicular joint: findings in degenerative joint disease

High resolution, narrow collimation, axial computed tomography of the sternoclavicular joint was used to describe changes secondary to degenerative joint disease in 32 cadaveric specimens. The distribution and pattern of sclerosis, cystic changes, and osteophyte formation in the axial plane were well demonstrated using this technique. Joint space narrowing was sometimes difficult to assess. Subtle joint space calcification was exquisitely demonstrated using computed tomography. Clavicular head cupping, an anatomic variant, may predispose to more severe degenerative change. Computed tomography is an excellent means to analyze the sternoclavicular joint for the presence of degenerative joint disease and may be the imaging modality of choice in assessing articular disorders of the sternoclavicular joint.