NORMAL AND PATHOLOGICAL ANATOMY OF THE SHOULDER JOINT: AN MRI-BASED PICTORIAL REVIEW

Abstract

In our study we evaluate MRI as an excellent soft tissue contrast and allows for multiplanar imaging in anatomic planes. Because of these advantages MRI has become the study of choice for imaging of shoulder pathology. It allows high-resolution imaging of all anatomic structures including the Rotator cuff tendons and muscles, glenoid, humeral head, articular cartilage, acromion, labrum, biceps tendon and the glenohumeral ligaments in multiple orthogonal planes. The aim of this review is to update orthopaedic surgeons on the technical aspects of performing magnetic resonance imaging of the shoulder. In addition, this report will define the normal anatomy of the shoulder as demonstrated by magnetic resonance imaging and review the spectrum of disease detectable with this technique.