MRI of rotator cuff tendon tears : an introduction : part 1 : imaging protocols and relevant anatomy

Abstract

Rotator cuff tendon tears are a common reason to refer a patient for shoulder MR imaging. The role of the radiologist, in addition to diagnosing the presence or otherwise of an actual tear and assessing the surrounding soft tissue and skeletal structures, is to convey diagnostically and prognostically useful information that helps referring clinicians devise optimal management plans for their patients. Part 1 discusses how MR imaging of the shoulder is performed, in addition to relevant MR rotator cuff tendon anatomy, whereas part 2 (to be published in the next issue) will describe rotator cuff tendon tears in detail.