Shoulder MRI: what do we miss?

Objective: Our aim is to review several shoulder abnormalities that are difficult to detect accurately on shoulder MRI, describe the technical reasons that limit their detection, and suggest imaging protocol modifications that may improve radiologists' accuracy.

Conclusion: Although MRI is an excellent tool for detecting some abormalities, there are a number of subtler abnormalities of clinical significance that give radiologists greater difficulty. By understanding the reasons for limited detection and modifying protocols accordingly, radiologists may be able to improve identification, allowing more accurate clinical decision making.