Publication:

Comparative imaging modalities for diagnosing rotator cuff injuries

Rotator cuff injuries are a significant cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction, with their prevalence increasing with age. Diagnosing these injuries accurately is crucial for determining appropriate treatment strategies. Various imaging modalities, such as high-resolution ultrasonography (HRUS), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA), play a pivotal role in identifying rotator cuff injuries. MRI, considered the gold standard, offers detailed insights into tendon degeneration, partial tears, and full-thickness tears. Meanwhile, HRUS is favored for its cost-effectiveness, non-invasive nature, and real-time dynamic assessments. This review compares these imaging techniques, highlighting their diagnostic accuracy, strengths, and limitations in the context of rotator cuff injuries. Although MRI provides comprehensive information on tendon pathology and associated conditions like muscle atrophy, HRUS remains a valuable tool due to its accessibility and accuracy in diagnosing both partial and full-thickness tears. Understanding the comparative efficacy of these imaging modalities is essential for clinicians to make informed decisions about patient management.