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World J Radiol. Jun 28, 2014; 6(6): 274-283
Published online Jun 28, 2014. doi: 10.4329/wjr.v6.i6.274
Rotator cuff disorders: How to write a surgically relevant magnetic resonance imaging report?
Ahmed M Tawfik, Ahmad El-Morsy, Mohamed Aboelnour Badran
Ahmed M Tawfik, Ahmad El-Morsy, Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35112, Egypt
Mohamed Aboelnour Badran, Orthopaedic Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35112, Egypt
Author contributions: Tawfik AM, El-Morsy A and Badran MA designed the article; Tawfik AM and El-Morsy A acquired the data; Tawfik AM, El-Morsy A and Badran MA wrote the draft; Tawfik AM, El-Morsy A and Badran MA approved the final version.
Correspondence to: Ahmed M Tawfik, MD, PhD, Lecturer of Radiology and Consultant Radiologist, Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, El-Gomhoreya Street, Mansoura 35112, Egypt. ahm_m_tawfik@hotmail.com
Telephone: +20-50-2262239 Fax: +20-50-2259147
Received: December 28, 2013
Revised: April 7, 2014
Accepted: May 14, 2014
Published online: June 28, 2014
Abstract

Evaluation of rotator cuff is a common indication for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning of the shoulder. Conventional MRI is the most commonly used technique, while magnetic resonance (MR) arthrography is reserved for certain cases. Rotator cuff disorders are thought to be caused by a combination of internal and external mechanisms. A well-structured MRI report should comment on the relevant anatomic structures including the acromial type and orientation, the presence of os acromiale, acromio-clavicular degenerative spurs and fluid in the subacromial subdeltoid bursa. In addition, specific injuries of the rotator cuff tendons and the condition of the long head of biceps should be accurately reported. The size and extent of tendon tears, tendon retraction and fatty degeneration or atrophy of the muscles are all essential components of a surgically relevant MRI report.

Keywords: Magnetic resonance imaging, Rotator cuff tendons, Tendon tear, Review, Shoulder

Core tip: This review discusses the relevant anatomy of rotator cuff, mechanisms of rotator cuff injury, techniques of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) used as well as all relevant MRI findings in an easy and ordered manner with illustrative figures and examples.