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Computed tomography of the normal sternoclavicular joint
L Lucet1, X Le Loët, J F Ménard
1Department of Rheumatology, Hôpital de Bois-Guillaume, CHU de Rouen, France.
Skeletal Radiology
|April 1, 1996
Summary
This study established a reference population for the sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) using CT scans. Findings reveal age and sex influence SCJ signs, providing crucial data for future research.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy and Imaging
- Rheumatology
- Radiology
Background:
- The sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) is complex and often affected by various conditions.
- Establishing a baseline for healthy SCJ morphology is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a reference population for studying the sternoclavicular joint (SCJ).
- To define normal variations and age-related changes in the SCJ.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study utilizing high-resolution computed tomography (CT) of the SCJ.
- Evaluation of CT images by two radiologists and two rheumatologists using a standardized grid of 27 elementary signs.
- Inclusion of 60 healthy subjects, aged 20-80, evenly distributed by sex and decade.
Main Results:
- 98% of healthy subjects exhibited at least one SCJ sign, with a mean of 2.4 signs per person.
- Men showed a significantly higher mean number of signs (3.1) compared to women (1.7).
- The number of SCJ signs increased with age, with specific signs like sternal osteophytes and meniscal calcification more prevalent in older individuals.
Conclusions:
- The study successfully established a reference population for the SCJ.
- Age and sex are significant factors influencing the prevalence and type of SCJ signs in healthy individuals.
- These findings provide valuable reference data for the radiological and rheumatological study of the sternoclavicular joint.