UC San Diego

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is a useful modality for evaluating the labrocapsular ligamentous complex (LCLC) of the shoulder. MR arthrography is an important and occasionally indispensable supplementary modality for accurate differentiation between normal and deranged glenohumeral joints. Because of the joint distention that occurs during MR arthrography, it is especially helpful in detecting subtle capsular derangement, as occurs in patients with atraumatic instability. Also, some of the pitfalls associated with MR imaging of the LCLC are less likely to occur with MR arthrography. Radiologists should look for several key abnormalities when evaluating MR images of the shoulder: an anterior or posterior Bankart lesion; a Hill-Sachs defect; a tear of the rotator cuff, glenoid labrum, or superior labrum-biceps tendon attachment; and loose bodies. Knowledge of normal anatomy, normal variations, and pitfalls in image interpretation related to evaluation of the LCLC will help the radiologist accurately detect debilitating derangements associated with glenohumeral instability.