Emory Healthcare Study Uses Dynamic Digital Radiography to Evaluate Post-Surgery Shoulder Recovery
Konica Minolta Healthcare Americas, Inc. has extended congratulations to researchers at Emory Healthcare for publishing a study that leverages Dynamic Digital Radiography (DDR) to assess shoulder biomechanics following two common surgical treatments for massive irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs). The two techniques—reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) and arthroscopically assisted lower trapezius tendon (aLTT) transfer—are both widely used, but measuring postoperative shoulder function has been a persistent challenge. DDR enabled the team to evaluate real-time shoulder movement by analyzing scapulohumeral rhythm (SHR), which reflects the balance between glenohumeral and scapulothoracic motion. The researchers also sought to establish a data-driven approach to guide surgical decision-making with the help of DDR. The study has been accepted and is now available online in the Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery.
DDR is an innovative X-ray imaging technique, available on Konica Minolta Healthcare DR Systems, that captures both traditional images and motion-based cinegrams. This technology allows for detailed imaging of complex joints like the shoulder during active movement. By quickly capturing sequential images, DDR creates a cineloop (cineradiography) that lets clinicians observe how bones and joints move in real time, significantly enhancing diagnostic insight.
The study, led by Sameer R. Khawaja, MD, with contributions from Eric R. Wagner, MD, MSc, and his lab team, used DDR to analyze scapulohumeral rhythm before and after surgery. Their findings indicate that patients treated with aLTT achieved better restoration of natural shoulder motion than those who underwent RSA. The results show that aLTT not only stabilizes the shoulder but also improves functional movement. Although RSA remains an effective treatment for MIRCTs and other shoulder conditions, it does not match the biomechanical restoration achieved with aLTT.
According to Dr. Wagner, the use of DDR technology from Konica Minolta provides a new framework for clinical decision-making, both before surgery and when evaluating outcomes afterward. He emphasized that the dynamic nature of DDR imaging can transform how surgeons choose the best treatment path for each patient.
Dr. Zaamin Hussain, an Orthopedic Surgery Resident at Emory Healthcare, added that selecting between RSA and aLTT can be a complex decision due to the distinct nature of each procedure. DDR helps guide that choice by offering detailed preoperative insight. The study also suggests that the enhanced shoulder coordination seen with aLTT may only be identifiable through dynamic, in vivo imaging.
John Sabol, PhD, Clinical Research Manager at Konica Minolta Healthcare, commended the Emory research team for showcasing DDR’s value in comparing post-surgical outcomes for MIRCT patients. He highlighted DDR as an FDA-cleared solution that reveals the real-time interplay of bone and soft tissue throughout their full range of motion. As demonstrated in this study, DDR helps overcome past challenges in measuring biomechanics in clinical settings, offering potential to elevate both care quality and patient results.