Ultrasonography as a diagnostic modality in acromioclavicular joint pathologies.
BACKGROUND
Ultrasound is useful in detecting acromioclavicular pathologies in cases of trauma, inflammations and degenerative changes.


OBJECTIVE
To describe the sonographic findings of acromioclavicular joint pathology in patients with anterior shoulder pain.


METHODS
Sonographic examination of the ACJ was used to examine 30 adults with anterior shoulder pain. As a control group we studied 30 asymptomatic patients and compared the findings to plain radiographs of the symptomatic group.


RESULTS
The pathologic findings consisted of swelling of the joints, bone irregularities, widening and/or narrowing of the ACJ, soft tissue cyst formation, excessive fluid collection, and calcification. All these signs represent degenerative changes compatible with early osteoarthritis. We encountered one case of septic arthritis that required joint aspiration and antibiotic treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
It is our belief that ultrasonography should be used routinely in cases of anterior shoulder pain since it demonstrates various pathologies undetected by plain radiographs.
Blankstein
Alexander
A
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel. blankali@zahav.net.il
Ganel
Avraham
A
Givon
Uri
U
Dudkiewicz
Israel
I
Perry
Moshe
M
Diamant
Lydia
L
Chechik
Aharon
A
D000173:Acromioclavicular Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000293:injuries*; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002114:Calcinosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017006:Rotator Cuff / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D000070636:Rotator Cuff Injuries; D012421:Rupture / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D020069:Shoulder Pain / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000209:etiology; D052256:Tendinopathy / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014463:Ultrasonography