Arthrotomography of the shoulder

Computed and conventional arthrotomography are accurate methods of evaluating the glenohumeral joint. Structures that can normally be observed include the humeral head, the bony glenoid fossa, the fibrous glenoid labrum, and the biceps tendon. Abnormalities of the labrum and glenoid fossa are easily identified by both examinations, and osseous defects of the humeral head and alterations of the biceps are ideally depicted by computed anthrotomography. Although computed anthrotomography is easier to perform and better tolerated by patients, either method of arthrotomography can serve as an effective screening test for patients undergoing evaluation of glenohumeral joint instability.