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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2022; 26(05): 585-596
DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1756167
Review Article

Rotator Cuff Injury and Repair

Laura A. Fitzpatrick
1   Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
,
Angela Atinga 
2   Department of Medical Imaging, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
,
Lawrence White 
1   Joint Department of Medical Imaging, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
3   Sinai Health System, University Health Network, and Women's College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
,
Patrick D.G. Henry
4   Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Sunnybrook Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
,
Linda Probyn 
2   Department of Medical Imaging, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract

Rotator cuff pathology is a commonly encountered clinical and radiologic entity that can manifest as tendinopathy or tearing. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasonography offer similar sensitivity and specificity for the evaluation of the native rotator cuff, and the chosen modality may vary, depending on local practice and accessibility. MR arthrography is frequently used in the postoperative setting as a problem-solving tool. Key findings to include in the preoperative MRI report include the size and location of the tear, thickness of the tendon involved (partial versus full thickness), and overall tendon quality. The report should also address features associated with poor surgical outcomes, such as fatty atrophy, a decreased acromiohumeral interval, and evidence of rotator cuff arthropathy. Musculoskeletal radiologists should be familiar with the various surgical techniques and expected postoperative imaging appearance of rotator cuff repairs. Imaging also plays a role in identifying recurrent tearing, graft failure, hardware loosening, infection, and other complications.

Keywords

rotator cuff - tendinopathy - tear - postoperative rotator cuff

Supplementary Material



Publication History

Article published online:
19 December 2022

© 2022. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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