Exploring the Use of Sonographic Evaluation of the Glenohumeral Labrum

Abstract

Glenohumeral (GH) dislocations of the shoulder are prevalent in young male subjects and appear to be increasing in incidence. The classic diagnostic evaluation of labral injuries such as this involves the use of clinical testing as well as imaging modalities such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and radiography, none of which provides a dynamic evaluation. This study was done to replicate sonographic evaluation of the glenoid labrum in a preclinical model and use the axillary scanning approach to specifically assess the integrity of the anterior inferior labrum. Using sonographic guidance, minimal amounts of differently colored dyes were injected into regions of the glenoid labrum. This replication was able to image only the posterior superior, posterior inferior, and anterior inferior aspects of the GH labrum. Bankart lesions were identified in two shoulders, confirmed on dissection. The presence of dyes in the target areas within and around the labrum was visually confirmed. These findings suggest that the concept of using an axillary scanning approach for detecting labral tears and Bankart lesions in patients with acute and chronic shoulder dislocation may be worthwhile to incorporate into a shoulder-scanning protocol.