MRI ANALYSIS OF THE ROTATOR CUFF PATHOLOG Y - A NEW CLASSIFICATION

The different classifications use for the rotator cuff pathology seem to be incomplete. We propose a new classification with many advantages : 1) Differentiate the tendinopathy between less serious (grade 2A) an d serious (grade 2B). 2) Recognize the intra-tendinous cleavage of the infra-spinatus associated with complete tear of the supra-spinatus. 3 ) Differentiate partial and complete tears of the supra-spinatus. We e tablished this classification after a retrospective study of 42 patien ts operated on for a rotator cuff pathology. Every case had had a preo perative MRI. This classification is simple, reliable, especially for the associated intra tendinous cleavage.