Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS) and elastography assess deltoid muscle integrity after reverse shoulder arthroplasty

Purpose: The outcome after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) depends on the condition of the deltoid muscle, which we assessed with novel ultrasound modalities and electromyography (EMG). Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) were applied to compare perfusion and elasticity of the deltoid muscle to the clinical and functional outcome. Material and methods: 64 patients (mean age 72.9 years) treated with RSA between 2004 and 2013 were recruited. The deltoid muscle was examined with EMG and ultrasound; functional scores such as Constant (CS) and ASES were assessed. Among…