Skeletal development of the proximal humerus in the pediatric population: MRI features.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to provide a guideline of normal MRI developmental anatomy of the proximal humerus in a growing child.

Materials And Methods: Retrospective interpretation of 83 consecutive MRI studies of shoulders in children 2 months to 17 years old was performed in consensus by two radiologists. The following variables were documented: presence, number, and fusion of secondary ossification centers; appearance and closure of the growth plate; presence of the metaphyseal stripe; and proximal metaphyseal marrow signal intensity.