AANA19 Shoulder Access Pass-The Effect of Time Interval from MRI to Rotator Cuff Repair on Tear Size_ Imaged vs. Actual Tear Size-Dr. Gregory P. Nicholson, M.D.

The Effect of Time Interval from MRI to Rotator Cuff Repair on Tear Size_ Imaged vs. Actual Tear Size-Dr. Gregory P. Nicholson, M.D.

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Video Summary

This study examined how the time between preoperative MRI and rotator cuff surgery affects tear size accuracy. MRI is the gold standard for diagnosing rotator cuff tears, but tear progression can occur over time, especially in symptomatic patients. Researchers compared MRI measurements with intraoperative findings in supraspinatus tears, focusing on tear size and location. Results showed that MRI underestimates tear size as time increases, particularly beyond six months, with decreasing accuracy in predicting tear location and anterior band integrity. The study suggests that MRIs older than six months may be less reliable for surgical planning, indicating a potential need for updated imaging before repair.

Keywords

rotator cuff tear

preoperative MRI

tear size accuracy

surgical planning

tear progression