Normal variants of the middle glenohumeral ligament in MR imaging of the shoulder

Abstract

The middle glenohumeral ligament [MGHL] demonstrates the greatest variation in size and thickness, of all the three glenohumeral ligaments seen on MR imaging of the shoulder. We report a series of patients who underwent routine MR imaging of the shoulder for unrelated pathologies in whom a significant number of MGHL variants were identified. The importance of recognizing this lies in avoiding overdiagnosing or mistaking these for labral or ligamentous pathology. We conclude with a brief review of the importance and functions of the MGHL.