Typical finds
The main cause of shoulder pain in adults is rotator cuff pathology: from tendonitis to complete rupture of the supraspinatus tendon. MRI accurately determines the degree of damage and the size of the defect, which directly influences the choice between conservative treatment and surgery. The study also reveals damage to the labrum after dislocation, impingement syndrome, bursitis and adhesive capsulitis (“frozen shoulder”).
Why do you need an MRI for a joint injury?
X-rays and computed tomography clearly show the bone, but the ligaments, menisci, cartilage and tendons are practically invisible on them. Meanwhile, it is these structures that are damaged in a typical sports or everyday joint injury.
MRI is the only test that can show a torn meniscus, cruciate ligament injury, bone marrow edema, fluid accumulation, and cartilage damage without surgery.
What does joint examination reveal?
- tears and degenerative changes of the menisci
- partial and complete ruptures of ligaments and tendons
- damage to articular cartilage and signs of arthrosis
- accumulation of fluid in the joint cavity and synovitis
- bone marrow edema and hidden fractures not visible on x-ray
- cysts, tumors and inflammatory changes in periarticular tissues
What to do with the pictures
The radiologist's report describes the changes found, but the decision on treatment is made by an orthopedic traumatologist, comparing the MRI picture with complaints and examination results. The same changes in different patients may require both conservative tactics and arthroscopy.