INTRODUCTION:
Shoulder pain is one of the most prevalent complaints in the general population, ranging from 6.9 to 20.9%.(1) It is the third most frequently encountered reason for musculoskeletal visits in primary care, particularly among the elderly.(2)It can lead to significant disabilities, job loss, high health care costs, and a diminished quality of life.(3)
Rotator cuff tears (RCT) are a prevalent cause of shoulder joint pain, occurring in approximately 85% of cases.(4)According to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) studies, the prevalence of RCT rises with age and ranges from 5% to 39%.(5)
The shoulder joint is a complex structure composed of osseous, articular, and soft tissue components. Clinically localizing the cause of pain is frequently difficult due to the overlap of clinical signs. Thus, imaging is crucial in the treatment of patients with shoulder pain because it identifies anomalies and improves diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.(6)
AIM OF THE WORK:
The aim of the work was to compare the sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in the detection of rotator cuff tears.