Marcelo Novelino Simão MD, PhD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Emily N. Vinson MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Charles Edward Spritzer MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

“Meniscoid” type superior labra are defined as: A prominent superior labrum with a partially mobile inferior free edge which covers a portion of the glenoid articular surface. Intra-articular fluid when present generally insinuates between the labrum and glenoid and outlines a smooth transition from the labrum to the glenoid margin. The objective of this study is to 1.) determine the incidence of a “meniscoid-type” superior labrum and 2.) assess whether the findings of meniscoid labra are specific by determining how frequently superior labral tears are confused for meniscoid labra.

A retrospective analysis of 582 shoulder MRI examinations from 1/1/2007 through 7/30/2007 was performed. 110 cases were excluded for multiple reasons leaving 472 cases for analysis. Consensus readings from 3 MSK radiologists were performed using the criteria described above to diagnose meniscoid labra.

A meniscoid type of superior labrum was identified in 48 (10.1%) cases. Arthroscopic proof was available in 21 (43.75%) cases. In 10 of 21 cases (47.6%), there was no mention of a superior labral tear, suggesting the presence of a meniscoid labrum. However, in only one case were there specific comments about a mobile superior labrum. In the remaining 11 (52.4%) cases, surgical correlation demonstrated superior labral tears. In 7 cases, the tear was restricted to the superior labrum (SLAP type). In 4 cases, the superior labral abnormality was part of a more extensive tear extending anteriorly or posteriorly.

A” meniscoid” type of superior labrum is not an infrequent finding. Depending upon assumptions and the requirement of surgical proof, the incidence of a meniscoid superior labrum was between 2.1% (surgically proven) and 4.8% (projected) in this series. However, superior labral tears are just as frequent and often confused for meniscoid labra.

A meniscoid type of superior labrum is not an infrequent finding, recognize as a normal variant and determine how frequently superior labral tears are confused for meniscoid labra is appropriated

Simão, M, Vinson, E, Spritzer, C, Retrospective Evaluation of “Meniscoid” Type Superior Labrum: A Normal Variant or a Superior Labral Tear.  Radiological Society of North America 2011 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 26 - December 2, 2011 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2011/11010428.html