MAGNETIC-RESONANCE PATHOLOGY OF THE ROTATOR CUFF

This article reviews the current issues in imaging of the rotator cuff with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Important technical issues are discussed, including some of the newer pulse sequences, surface coils , and MR arthrography. Debate continues over what constitutes the norm al appearance of the rotator cuff. Issues regarding studies of asympto matic volunteers, pitfalls in imaging, and MR artifacts such as magic angle effects are discussed. The article also reviews the basic concep ts of MR interpretation of pathologic lesions of the cuff, including t endinopathy, partial and complete tears, and the relationships to rota tor cuff impingement.