Sugaya classification

Last revised by Henry Knipe on 29 Jun 2022

The Sugaya classification is a 5-point system used to evaluate rotator cuff repair.

Usage

The Sugaya classification is the most common system used to evaulate rotator cuff repair 2 although intra- and inter-observer reproducibility is variable 3,4

Classification

The Sugaya classification assesses post-operative rotator cuff repair on oblique coronal, oblique sagittal and transverse T2WI 1:

  • type I: sufficient thickness compared to normal cuff with homogeneous low signal
  • type II: sufficient thickness compared to normal cuff with partial high-intensity area
  • type III
    • <50% thickness compared to normal cuff without discontinuity
    • suggests partial-thickness delamination tear
  • type IV
    • minor discontinuity (1-2 slices) on both oblique coronal and oblique sagittal images
    • suggests small full-thickness tear
  • type V
    • major discontinuity (>2 slices) on both oblique coronal and sagittal images
    • suggests medium or large full-thickness tear

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