MODERN ULTRASONOGRAPHY TECHNIQUES FOR MASSIVE INJURIES OF SHOULDER JOINT ROTATOR CUFF TENDONS

Abstract

Recently the development of medical technologies has led to a significant progress in diagnosis of the shoulder joint diseases. The leading role in this was played by an improvement of such imaging methods as magnetic resonance imaging, high−resolution ultrasound scanning, having an advantage over traditional radiography, as they allow the diagnosis the pathology not only of bone structures but also of soft tissues. Magnetic resonance imaging has become the main method of visualizing the soft tissue structures of musculoskeletal system, but the high cost of the study, lack of clear and distinct indications for it reduce the number of patients. Ultrasound has proven to be one of the main methods of objective diagnosis in patients with musculoskeletal pathology, and high−frequency sensors can visualize articular cartilage and its structure, tendons of the shoulder rotator cuff and tendons of the long head of the biceps. In order to determine the most significant differential diagnostic criteria for massive rupture of the shoulder rotational cuff with the help of two−dimensional mode, color and energy Doppler mapping and functional ultrasonography, 32 patients operated on this subject were examined. The following ultrasound data were evaluated: homogeneity, echogenicity, integrity of tendon contours, presence of effusion in bursae and tendon sheaths, number of vascular signals in the affected area during color and energy Doppler mapping, if needed − the results of functional tests. Thus, modern ultrasound capabilities allow its use both for primary diagnosis and for monitoring the treatment process, which, in turn, directly affects the choice of treatment. Key words: shoulder joint, rotator cuff, ultrasound, diagnostics.