Computed tomography of the glenohumeral and sternoclavicular joints

Cross-sectional image display and high contrast resolution of computed tomography underscore the importance of this modality in the evaluation of a wide variety of abnormalities involving the glenohumeral articulation. Computerized arthrotomography provides a more comprehensive examination of the glenohumeral joint when compared with conventional arthrotomography. Furthermore, it requires less technical expertise to perform and is better tolerated by symptomatic patients. Computerized arthrotomography appears to be an ideal imaging method for evaluation of the Hill-Sachs defect and may prove to be the best imaging technique in the assessment of abnormalities of the bicipital tendon and sheath. In addition, the cross-sectional image display and wide contrast resolution of CT are well suited to the evaluation of the sternoclavicular joint.