Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder Joint; Correlation between the Utrasonographic and MRI Findings

Abstract Background Adhesive capsulitis “frozen shoulder,” is a debilitating condition characterized by progressive pain and limited range of motion of the glenohumeral joint. It is a condition that typically affects middle-aged women, with some evidence for an association with endocrinological, rheumatological, and autoimmune disease states. Early diagnosis and treatment of adhesive capsulitis can lead to markedly improved clinical management. Diagnosis is usually based on physical examination alone. However, imaging studies can clarify the diagnosis in equivocal cases showing overlapping symptoms with other shoulder pathologies. Aim to correlate between the ultrasonographic and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder (ACS). Material & Method Our study was carried out on 30 patients, of any age group, having shoulder pain and stiffness for longer than 15 weeks. The patients had both US & MRI examinations, the findings of the 2 modalities were recorded and compared. Results There was significant statistical agreement (P value <0.001) between US & conventional MRI, US demonstrated CHL, IGH and rotator interval changes. Conclusion Based on the results, high resolution US with dynamic real-time assessment was proven to be sensitive, specific with significant agreement to conventional MRI in detecting adhesive capsulitis pathology. So US can be used as an initial modality for patients with chronic shoulder pain and limitation of movements.