Magnetic resonance imaging findings associated with surgically proven rotator interval lesions.
OBJECTIVE
To identify shoulder magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings associated with surgically proven rotator interval abnormalities.


METHODS
The preoperative MRI examinations of five patients with surgically proven rotator interval (RI) lesions requiring closure were retrospectively evaluated by three musculoskeletal-trained radiologists in consensus. We assessed the structures in the RI, including the coracohumeral ligament, superior glenohumeral ligament, fat tissue, biceps tendon, and capsule for variations in size and signal alteration. In addition, we noted associated findings of rotator cuff and labral pathology.


RESULTS
Three of three of the MR arthrogram studies demonstrated extension of gadolinium to the cortex of the undersurface of the coracoid process compared with the control images, seen best on the sagittal oblique images. Four of five of the studies demonstrated subjective thickening of the coracohumeral ligament, and three of five of the studies demonstrated subjective thickening of the superior glenohumeral ligament. Five of five of the studies demonstrated a labral tear.


CONCLUSIONS
The MRI arthrogram finding of gadolinium extending to the cortex of the undersurface of the coracoid process was noted on the studies of those patients with rotator interval lesions at surgery in this series. Noting this finding-especially in the presence of a labral tear and/or thickening of the coracohumeral ligament or superior glenohumeral ligament-may be helpful in the preoperative diagnosis of rotator interval lesions.
Vinson
Emily N
EN
Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA. vinso003@mc.duke.edu
Major
Nancy M
NM
Higgins
Laurence D
LD
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D007593:Joint Instability / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D017006:Rotator Cuff / Q000473:pathology*; D000070636:Rotator Cuff Injuries; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D000070599:Shoulder Injuries; D012785:Shoulder Joint / Q000473:pathology*