Recently, several authors insist on the importance of evaluating the glenoid morphology using 3DCT prior to arthroscopic stabilization. On the other hand, conventional radiography such as West Point view can not effectively demonstrate the anterior glenoid rim. We developed a new X-ray method which can easily demonstrate anterior glenoid rim lesions. The purpose of this study is to evaluate this new method through comparison with the West Point View. Subjects consisted of 40 patients with unilateral recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability, including 34 males and 6 females. Informed consent was obtained from all patients prior to initiating this study. Radiographic evaluation was performed with X-rays in the new method and West Point view on both sides. Diagnostic capability of the new method was evaluated by 2 blinded orthopaedic surgeons regarding morphology of the anterior glenoid rim through the comparison with the West Point view and 3DCT of the same shoulder. The new method clearly demonstrated the anterior glenoid rim in 39 shoulders (97.5%) whereas the West Point view demonstrated it only in 22 shoulders (55.0%). Thirty-four shoulders (85.0%) were diagnosed as positive anterior glenoid rim lesions in the new method while only 9 shoulders (22.5%) were diagnosed as pathological in the West Point view. Further, 37 shoulders (92.5%) corresponded with the 3DCT findings. The new X-ray method is useful in evaluating the anterior glenoid rim morphology in shoulders with recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability.
