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Acromial arch shape: assessment with MR imaging
W C Peh1, T H Farmer, W G Totty
1Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Radiology
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Acromial shape assessment differs between X-ray and MRI. Radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques significantly alter apparent acromial shape, impacting diagnostic accuracy.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic imaging
- Radiology
- Shoulder anatomy
Background:
- Acromial shape is crucial for diagnosing shoulder impingement.
- Standardized assessment of acromial morphology is needed for accurate diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare acromial shape assessment between supraspinatus outlet view radiographs and parasagittal magnetic resonance (MR) images.
- To evaluate the reliability of imaging techniques in depicting acromial morphology.
Main Methods:
- Radiographs of a dried scapula were taken with varying angulations.
- Sagittal MR images of 80 shoulders (41 asymptomatic, 39 symptomatic) were reviewed.
- Acromial shape was classified using established schemes and compared between modalities.
Main Results:
- Radiographic angulation and MR imaging slice selection altered apparent acromial shape and thickness.
- Poor correlation was found between radiographic and MR findings in symptomatic shoulders.
- 39 of 41 asymptomatic shoulders showed changes in shape or thickness grade with MR section variation.
Conclusions:
- Apparent acromial shape is highly sensitive to imaging technique variations.
- Both radiographic and MR imaging parameters can influence the perceived acromial morphology.
- Standardization of imaging protocols is essential for consistent acromial shape evaluation.