MR-IMAGING OF THE ROTATOR CUFF MECHANISM - COMPARISON OF SPIN-ECHO AND TURBO SPIN-ECHO SEQUENCES

OBJECTIVE. Although well documented in other MR imaging applications, the value of turbo spin-echo sequences in evaluating the shoulder has not been addressed. This study was designed to directly compare matche d spin-echo and turbo spin-echo sequences in the MR imaging evaluation of the rotator cuff. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Using otherwise matched d ouble-echo sequences of equal time duration, we performed 123 paired s pin-echo (TR/TE, 2000/25,75; one excitation) and turbo spin-echo (3500 -5000/22,90; two excitations) sequences in the paracoronal and/or para sagittal plane of the shoulders of 76 patients referred to our institu tion for possible rotator cuff tear. The sequences were retrospectivel y analyzed for cuff signal and morphology, fluid conspicuity, coracoac romial arch morphology, and bone marrow signal abnormalities. Surgical and nonsurgical clinical results were correlated when available. RESU LTS. We found 100% diagnostic correlation between spin-echo and turbo spin-echo sequences for rotator cuff integrity. Surgical data were ava ilable for 26 patients, and clinical follow-up for another 37. For com plete rotator cuff tear in the surgical subpopulation, sensitivity was 89%, specificity was 94%, and diagnostic accuracy was 24 of 26 (92%). We found no diagnostically significant difference between the two ima ging sequences for fluid conspicuity, coracoacromial morphology, or ma rrow signal. Signal-to-noise ratios were superior in the turbo spin-ec ho sequences. CONCLUSION. Turbo spin-echo sequences are an accurate an d efficient tool in the MR imaging evaluation of the rotator cuff. Pot ential benefits include time saving, increased spatial resolution, and improved signal-to-noise ratio.