Magnetic resonance imaging of impingement and rotator cuff disorders. A surgical perspective.

In conclusion, the clinical picture of impingement syndrome is one of a continuum occurring as a result of compression of the bursa and rotator cuff within the subacromial space. In its early stages nonoperative management will often suffice, but in resistant cases and in cuff tears operative intervention is often indicated. The usefulness of MR imaging has greatly expanded for the orthopaedist diagnosing and treating the patient with impingement. After careful clinical evaluation and plain radiographs, MR imaging can significantly add to our knowledge as to the extent of the disease process. This added information can aid in tailoring an individualized treatment regimen and can be invaluable in the preoperative planning for patients with rotator cuff pathology.