THE BUFORD COMPLEX - A VARIATION OF NORMAL SHOULDER ANATOMY - MR ARTHROGRAPHIC IMAGING FEATURES

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to show the MR arthrographic imaging features of a normal anatomic variation of the shoulder: the a bsence of the anterior superior labrum and the presence of a ''cordlik e'' middle glenohumeral ligament, which together are known as the Bufo rd complex. MATERIALS AND METHODS. We retrospectively analyzed the MR arthrographic examinations of 10 patients with arthroscopically proven Buford complexes. RESULTS. MR arthrographic examinations showed an ab sent anterior superior labrum and an associated cordlike middle glenoh umeral ligament in all patients, No contiguous tear of the superior la brum or anterior inferior labrum was evident. Originally, this variati on was mistakenly diagnosed as a labral avulsion in two of the 10 pati ents, Also, a differential diagnosis of a superior labral tear was mis takenly offered for four patients. CONCLUSION. An absent anterior supe rior labrum and an associated cordlike middle glenohumeral ligament re present the normal variation that is known as the Buford complex rathe r than an avulsed labrum, This normal variation may be mistaken for a detached labrum.