Editorial Commentary: Methodology of Measuring Bone Loss in Recurrent Shoulder Instability Surgery: Traditional Computed Tomography Scan and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Do Not Tell the Full Story.

Abstract

When measuring bone loss in recurrent shoulder instability, both computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are accurate using the circle method. However, measurement of on- versus off-track lesions can be inconsistent, and measuring Hill-Sachs lesions on MRI relative to an extrapolated rotator cuff attachment is difficult. In the end, determination of on- versus off-track treatment is quite difficult, and for this determination, differences between CT scan and MRI may be clinically imperceptible. Thus, for now, we, and we believe, other surgeons will continue to stick with the circle technique when determining individual patient treatment for recurrent shoulder instability.