Sonography of the Coracoid Process Region

Abstract

Sonography is widely known as an accurate imaging tool for assessment of the rotator cuff of the shoulder, the long head of the biceps tendon, and joint disorders, but it is rarely performed to evaluate the coracoid process and the adjacent soft tissues. Nevertheless, sonography can show anatomic details of this region and be used to assess several pathologic conditions. The aims of this pictorial essay are to briefly review the anatomy of the coracoid process region, describe examination technique and normal sonographic appearances, and present the sonographic findings of the main disorders affecting this region.

Keywords: coracoid process; musculoskeletal ultrasound; shoulder; sonography; tendons.