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MR evaluation of rotator cuff impingement: correlation with confirmed full-thickness rotator cuff tears
K Kaneko1, E H DeMouy, M E Brunet
1Department of Radiology, Tulane University Medical Center, New Orleans, LA 70112-2699.
Objective:
To clarify the efficacy of MRI for the evaluation of rotator cuff impingement beneath the coracoacromial arch, MRI findings were correlated with confirmed full-thickness rotator cuff tears (FTRCTs).
Materials And Methods:
Thirty-four shoulders with FTRCT and 49 control shoulders without FTRCT were selected for this study. Direct measurement of the subacromial space (SAS) and MRI grading of SAS and subacromioclavicular space (SACS) were correlated with FTRCT. In addition, the MRI impingement score (sum of SAS grade and SACS grade) was correlated with age and FTRCT.
Results:
Direct measurement of the SAS showed poor correlation with FTRCT. The SAS grade showed significant correlation with FTRCT; however, SACS grade showed poor correlation. Shoulders with higher MRI impingement scores were associated with FTRCT in patients over 40 years of age.
Conclusion:
The MRI sign of rotator cuff impingement is fairly reliable and helpful in discriminating patients with FTRCT, especially older patients.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) effectively identifies rotator cuff impingement, particularly in patients over 40. MRI scores correlate with full-thickness rotator cuff tears, aiding diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Rotator cuff impingement is a common cause of shoulder pain.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of MRI in diagnosing rotator cuff impingement.
- To correlate MRI findings with confirmed full-thickness rotator cuff tears (FTRCTs).
Main Methods:
- MRI scans of 34 shoulders with FTRCT and 49 control shoulders were analyzed.
- Subacromial space (SAS) and subacromioclavicular space (SACS) were measured and graded.
- An MRI impingement score was calculated and correlated with age and FTRCT.
Main Results:
- Direct SAS measurement showed poor correlation with FTRCT.
- SAS MRI grading correlated significantly with FTRCT, while SACS grading did not.
- Higher MRI impingement scores were associated with FTRCT in patients over 40.
Conclusions:
- MRI is a reliable tool for detecting rotator cuff impingement.
- MRI findings, especially the impingement score, are helpful in identifying FTRCT, particularly in older individuals.