Shoulder impingement syndrome: MRI imaging

ABSTRACT

Twenty five patients [21 males and 4 females] clinically diagnosed as rotator cuff impingement syndrome, were evaluated by MRI. Impinging structures were low acromion in 20 cases, subacromial spur in 9 cases and acromioclavicular osteoarthritis in 19 cases. Supraspinatous tendon was variably affected in 24 cases [96%] while subacromial bursa involvement was noticed in 22 cases [88%]. Surgical interference in 10 cases confirmed MRI findings. The rest of cases were treated either conservatively or with manipulations under anesthesia. Clinical improvement was excellent in 22 patients [88%], fair in 2 patients [8%], while only one patient showed no improvement. It is concluded that MRI can clearly delineate the soft tissue and bony abnormalities involved in shoulder impingement syndrome. This should offer a better understanding and treatment of such chronic painful condition