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High-resolution CT of the sternoclavicular joint and first costochondral synchondrosis in asymptomatic individuals

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Abstract

Objective

To assess CT features of the sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) and first costochondral junction in asymptomatic patients.

Materials and Methods

In 66 patients transverse and coronal oblique high-resolution multiple detector CT images of the SCJ and first costochondral junction were obtained. Images were reviewed by consensus of two radiologists. Joint space width was measured at three levels, and osteophytes, geodes, and erosions were evaluated. Variants and degree of ossification were noted. Statistical analysis consisted of Shapiro–Wilk test, Pearson’s test, and paired sample t test.

Results

There were 34 men and 32 women with a mean age of 60 years (age range, 17–98 years). The width of the joint spaces showed a normal distribution. There was no significant difference between the left and right sides. On coronal images the joint space was wider superiorly and on transverse images posteriorly. There was a trend toward decreasing joint space with age, although it did not reach significance (p > 0.05). Clavicular osteophytes were seen in 16 out of 66 patients (24 %) and sternal osteophytes in 16 out of 66 patients. Clavicular geodes were seen in 10 out of 66 patients (15 %) and sternal geodes in 14 out of 66 patients (14 %). No erosions were seen. Clefts of the first costochondral junction were seen in 31 out of 66 patients (47 %).

Conclusion

In asymptomatic patients, there is no significant asymmetry of the SCJ. The joint spaces did not significantly decrease with age, although such a trend could be observed. Pronounced joint space narrowing with large geodes and osteophytes was not seen. Clefts of the first costochondral junction are common and not significant.

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Acknowledgements

We would like to thank Els Avau, RT, Maarten Demunter, RT, and Annemieke Milants, MD for artwork.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Radiology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090, Brussels, Belgium

    Michel De Maeseneer, Nico Buls, Cedric Boulet, Seema Döring, Johan de Mey & Inneke Willekens

  2. Department of Radiology, Wake Forest University, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston Salem, NC, 27103, USA

    Leon Lenchik

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  1. Michel De Maeseneer
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  2. Leon Lenchik
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Correspondence to Michel De Maeseneer.

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De Maeseneer, M., Lenchik, L., Buls, N. et al. High-resolution CT of the sternoclavicular joint and first costochondral synchondrosis in asymptomatic individuals. Skeletal Radiol 45, 1257–1262 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-016-2414-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-016-2414-7

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