Using advanced MRI to assess shoulder tendon health in older adults

Quantitative shoulder MRI for evaluating rotator cuff pathology

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10875291

This study is looking at new MRI methods to help doctors better understand the condition of shoulder tendons in older adults with tears, so they can find the best treatment options and improve recovery after surgery.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10875291 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing new MRI techniques to evaluate the quality of rotator cuff tendons in older adults, particularly those suffering from tears that cause pain and disability. By using quantitative ultrashort echo-time MRI methods, the study aims to provide a non-invasive way to assess tendon and muscle quality, which is crucial for determining the best treatment options. The research will compare MRI findings with traditional histological analysis to improve understanding of how surgery affects tendon health. This approach could lead to better surgical outcomes and recovery for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those aged 65 and over, who are experiencing rotator cuff issues.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have rotator cuff tears or are younger than 65 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved evaluation methods that enhance surgical outcomes for older adults with rotator cuff tears.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for evaluating tendon health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.