High-Resolution Ultrasound Anatomy of the Rotator Cuff Tendons: Correlating with MRI Findings.
- RPIHEF NGO
- May 27
- 1 min read
Updated: Jul 7
Original Article, 2025, Volume -1, Issue -1, Page No 10-20
Dr. Sami Ahamad, AIIMS-Kolkata
Abstract
High-resolution ultrasound (HRUS) has emerged as a valuable imaging modality for assessing rotator cuff pathologies, offering real-time dynamic evaluation and excellent spatial resolution. This study aims to delineate the detailed anatomy of the rotator cuff tendons (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, and teres minor) using HRUS, and to correlate these findings with established magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearances. A prospective study was conducted on 50 asymptomatic volunteers and 30 patients presenting with shoulder pain. Each subject underwent both HRUS examination by an experienced sonographer and a standard MRI scan. HRUS imaging protocols meticulously visualized the fiber architecture, footprint attachments, and peritendinous structures of each rotator cuff tendon, identifying anatomical variations and potential areas of impingement. Key HRUS findings, such as tendon thickness, echotexture homogeneity, and presence of fluid collections, were systematically compared with corresponding MRI signal characteristics (T1, T2, and fat-suppressed sequences) and anatomical delineations. Our preliminary results demonstrate strong concordance between HRUS and MRI in identifying and characterizing normal tendon morphology and common pathologies like tendinopathy and partial-thickness tears. HRUS provided superior visualization of the superior aspect of the supraspinatus tendon near its insertion and dynamic assessment of subacromial space. This research underscores the utility of HRUS as a precise and accessible tool for detailed anatomical assessment of the rotator cuff, serving as a valuable adjunct or alternative to MRI in specific clinical scenarios, particularly for real-time evaluation and follow-up.