[Arthrography, ultrasound and MRI in rotator cuff lesions: a comparison of methods in partial lesions and small complete ruptures].
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the accuracy of arthrography, ultrasound and MR imaging in rotator cuff disease.


METHODS
40 patients suffering from subacromial impingement syndrome for at least three months and who were selected for surgery, underwent ultrasound, double-contrast arthrography and MR imaging. Patient preselection focused on partial and small complete tears.


RESULTS
13/26 surgically confirmed tears were partial tears (articular surface: 10, bursal surface: 2, intra-substance tearing: 1). Arthrography, ultrasound and MR imaging yield a sensitivity for complete tears of 91%, 69% and 92% with a specificity of 100%, 93% and 93%. For partial tears sensitivity was 50%, 69% and 69% with a specificity of 100%, 79% and 86%. Concerning evaluation of localisation, extent and correct classification ultrasound was correct in 17/26 cases, MR in 21/26 cases.


CONCLUSIONS
Arthrography is not helpful in detecting partial tears. Ultrasound and MR imaging yield comparable accuracy. MR imaging has advantages concerning better evaluation of extent, location and classification as well as for the detection of associated pathologies.
Kenn
W
W
Institut für Röntgendiagnostik, Universität Würzburg. w.kenn@mail.uni-wuerzburg.de
Hufnagel
P
P
Müller
T
T
Gohlke
F
F
Böhm
D
D
Kellner
M
M
Hahn
D
D
D001175:Arthrography; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017006:Rotator Cuff / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D000070636:Rotator Cuff Injuries; D012421:Rupture; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D019534:Shoulder Impingement Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D013708:Tendon Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014463:Ultrasonography