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43 - MRI of the Extremities
from PART IV - MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING
- By Kathryn J. Stevens
Edited by J. Christian Fox, University of California, Irvine
Book:

Clinical Emergency Radiology

Published online:

07 December 2009

Print publication:

29 September 2008, pp 586-632
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Summary

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an excellent imaging modality for visualizing soft tissue and bony pathology. It is exquisitely sensitive to bone marrow edema and can be used to evaluate for occult bony injuries that cannot be seen on radiography, or sometimes even on computed tomography (CT). Trauma is one of the most common reasons for a patient to present to the ED. Fractures and dislocations are common, and are almost always associated with injuries to intraarticular structures and surrounding soft tissues. MRI is more sensitive for early soft tissue or bone marrow edema. Trauma to ligaments, tendons, muscles, neurovascular bundles and intraarticular structures is best assessed with MRI. MRI scanners with higher field strength, new coil technology, fast pulse sequences, and increased use of contrast agents have expanded the use of MRI in musculoskeletal applications. MRI is non-invasive, involves no radiation, and is therefore ideal for younger patients.