The radiological assessment of shoulder pathology

Radiological imaging plays a central and invaluable role in the assessment and management of patients with suspected shoulder pathology. Whilst conventional plain film radiography remains the first-line investigation of choice, limitations with its ability to evaluate the soft tissue structures means that it is usually supplemented with ultrasound and/or MRI. The following article reviews common and uncommonly encountered shoulder pathologies and their respective imaging findings, with a specific focus on their ultrasound and MRI appearances.