[Clinical study on double contrast CT diagnosis of traumatic anterior shoulder instability].

Objective: To evaluate the clinical importance of double contrast CT diagnosis of traumatic anterior shoulder instability.

Methods: Forty-eight patients underwent double contrast CT scan. With the guide of CT scan, anterior arthrocentesis of the shoulder was performed and 4 ml of 76% urografin was injected into the joint and then 10 ml of filtrated air was injected. The patients were examined by SOMATOM CR Systematic CT. The results of double contrast CT of the 48 patients were divided into I, II and III degree according to the CT results related to their injury history, clinical symptoms, signs and operation findings.

Results: The patients had no complaint after the CT examination except for 3 patients, who had slight pain within 2 days after CT examination. The results of double contrast CT were as follow: I degree: 9 patients, II degree: 22 patients, and III degree: 17 patients. All patients with I degree injuries were treated with rehabilitation program. The patients with II degree injuries were mainly treated with rehabilitation program, but took much longer time. The patients with III degree injuries were suggested to be treated with surgery.

Conclusion: To divide the results of double contrast CT into I, II and III degree not only reflects the severity of traumatic anterior shoulder instability but provides information for the treatment of the instability.