Poster 168: Notching of the Greater Tuberosity Revisited: A Radiographic Indicator of Degenerative Rotator Cuff Tears

Objectives: The greater tuberosity notch (GTN) is an uncommonly reported radiographic finding which has been associated with articular sided partial rotator cuff tears (RCTs) in throwing athletes. This yet to be evaluated patients degenerative tears. purpose of this study assess the GTN measurement along five other previously described indicators for RTCs. Methods: After obtaining IRB approval, we prospectively collected and compared 80 standard shoulder radiograph series additional “notch view”, a lateral oblique showing profile. Thirty-four had confirmed via arthroscopy 46 control did not have suspected pathology. Two musculoskeletal radiologists independently reviewed radiographs size RCTs including: cyst (GTC), acromiohumeral interval (AHI), critical angle (CSA), inferior acromial sclerosis (IAS), spurring (LAS). A receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve was performed compare individual performance each six markers. Nearest neighbor analysis based on Euclidean distances followed by clustering pattern variables occurring together setting RCT. Results: total 320 were 1920 measurements made. IAS, LAS, GTCs, decreased AHI large GTNs (P < 0.01), but CSA or smaller sizes. Overall, predicted RCT moderate accuracy (AUC=0.676). Cluster suggested strongest correlation most closely related 0.003) distances. Conclusions: presence medium-sized alone moderately sensitive detecting Additionally, at least one indicator dramatically increases likelihood during surgery. these markers combination may represent continuum increasing severity