Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Rotator cuff injuries are a common cause of shoulder pain and disability, especially in older adults and include a spectrum of pathologies such as full‐thickness tears, partial‐thickness tears and tendinosis. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent further deterioration and maintain shoulder function. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has become a cornerstone in evaluating rotator cuff injuries due to its high sensitivity and specificity. This study aims to assess the role of MRI in diagnosing rotator cuff injuries, identifying the most frequent pathologies and correlating MRI findings with clinical outcomes. This prospective observational study involved 50 patients presenting with shoulder pain, all of whom underwent MRI evaluation for rotator cuff pathologies. MRI scans were performed using a Siemens Magnetom 1.5T MR scanner. The MRI protocols included various sequences: PD fat‐saturated, T2‐weighted, T1‐weighted oblique coronal and axial T2‐weighted images with fat saturation, along with oblique sagittal imaging. These images were meticulously analyzed to identify lesions in the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis and biceps tendon, as well as the presence of joint effusion. Comprehensive data on patient demographics, trauma history and tendon involvement were systematically collected and subjected to statistical analysis. Among the 50 patients, supraspinatus lesions were the most common finding, seen in 70% of cases, followed by infraspinatus lesions in 50% and subscapularis lesions in 32%. Biceps tendon pathologies were present in 24% of cases, while joint effusion was noted in 40%. Normal MRI findings were observed in 20% of cases. Full‐thickness tears were seen in 30% of patients, partial‐thickness tears in 40% and tendinosis in varying degrees across multiple tendons. Age‐related progression of pathology was evident, with higher rates of rotator cuff tears in older patients. MRI is an invaluable tool in diagnosing rotator cuff injuries, providing detailed visualization of tendon tears, tendinosis and associated pathologies. The ability to distinguish between partial and full‐thickness tears allows for better clinical decision‐making, improving patient outcomes through timely and appropriate treatment.
How to cite this article:
Dharshika , Sathish Babu and Rohit . Role of MRI Imaging in Evaluation of Rotator Cuff Injuries.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2024.12.426.431
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.36478/makrjms.2024.12.426.431