Which imaging modality is most sensitive for detecting a rotator cuff tear?

Which imaging modality is most sensitive for detecting a rotator cuff tear?

• A. MRI
• B. X-ray
• C. CT
• D. Ultrasound

Answer: (A)

MRI is the most sensitive for detecting a rotator cuff tear because it provides excellent soft tissue contrast that directly visualizes the tendons and surrounding muscle. It can reveal both partial-thickness and full-thickness tears, as well as associated changes such as muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration, and can assess the tear’s exact size and location. While ultrasound can detect tears, it is more operator-dependent and may miss partial-thickness tears or deep tendon pathology. X-ray and CT are much better for bone and joint structures and are not reliable for soft tissue tears, making MRI the best choice for this issue.

MRI is the most sensitive for detecting a rotator cuff tear because it provides excellent soft tissue contrast that directly visualizes the tendons and surrounding muscle. It can reveal both partial-thickness and full-thickness tears, as well as associated changes such as muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration, and can assess the tear’s exact size and location. While ultrasound can detect tears, it is more operator-dependent and may miss partial-thickness tears or deep tendon pathology. X-ray and CT are much better for bone and joint structures and are not reliable for soft tissue tears, making MRI the best choice for this issue.