Computed tomography of the rotator cuff - comparison with other imaging methods

We consider CT to be suitable for investigating the following lesions of the rotator cuff: 1) tendopathia calcarea. 2) Rotator cuff atrophy suitable for surgery. 3) Bone defects. 4) Inflammatory changes with effusions. For demonstrating rotator cuff defects that migth require surgery, we recommend CT arthrography, if possible with sagittal sections. This is particularly the case for younger patients with a history of trauma and evidence of a complex shoulder injury and in case with persistent symptoms after surgical intervention of ineffective conservative treatment. CT, however, is only indicated if sonography supplies limited information or if sonography is negative with positive clinical findings. (orig.)