Journal List > J Korean Orthop Assoc > v.28(1) > 1113849

Rhee, Bae, Kim, and Nam: Sonographic Evaluation of Rotator Cuff Tears

Abstract

Ultrasonographic (US) examination of the shoulder is a new method for evaluating the integrity of the rotator cuff. In past, the contrast arthrography has provided the only nonoperative technique for demonstrating defects in the rotator cuff. We reviewed 92 patients (172 shoulders) with shoulder pain who underwent rotator cuff imaging using high resolution real time ultrasound. The value of sonography in detecting rotator cuff tears was evaluated by correlating ultrasound findings with surgical findings in 11 patients, 18 of whom also underwent preoperative arthrography. In the group of ll surgical patients, ultrasound correctly predicted of rotator cuff tears in 10 of 11 patients, while arthrography predicted cuff tears in 14 of 18 patients. As the results, the overall sensitivity was 82.8%. There was no clinical significance between normal control group and impingement group in depth of rotator cuff. The common sonographic abnormalities were focal increased echogenecity, focal thinning and diffuse increased echogenecity. The rate of rotator cuff tear with bicipital tendinitis was 51.7%. The characteristic appearance of the normal and pathologic rotator cuff is described. Rotator cuff sonography proises to be a valuable diagnostic tool for evaluation of patients with suspected rotator cuff tears.

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