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Relationship between the lateral acromion angle and rotator cuff disease
M P Banas1, R J Miller, S Totterman
1Department of Orthopaedics and Radiology, University of Rochester School of Medicine, N.Y., USA.
Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
|November 1, 1995
Summary
A smaller lateral acromion angle on shoulder MRI is linked to increased rotator cuff disease, including tears. This measurement, along with patient age, helps predict rotator cuff issues.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Rotator cuff disease is a common cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction.
- Acromion morphology has been implicated in the development of rotator cuff pathology.
- Standardized assessment of acromion shape and its relation to rotator cuff disease is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between the lateral acromion angle and rotator cuff disease.
- To determine if the lateral acromion angle is an independent predictor of rotator cuff disease severity.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 100 shoulder MRI studies for rotator cuff symptoms.
- Measurement of the lateral acromion angle from oblique coronal MRI views.
- Correlation of the lateral acromion angle with MRI-determined rotator cuff scores and tendon grades using statistical analysis.
Main Results:
- A decreased lateral acromion angle was significantly correlated with increased rotator cuff disease (p < 0.0001).
- All eight patients with angles ≤70 degrees had full-thickness rotator cuff tears.
- Both lateral acromion angle and patient age were independent predictors of rotator cuff score.
Conclusions:
- The lateral acromion angle is a significant predictor of rotator cuff disease.
- This angle may serve as a valuable tool in evaluating and managing rotator cuff conditions.
- Further research could explore the clinical utility of this measurement in surgical planning.