[Magnetic resonance arthrography indications and technique (II). Lower limb].

Magnetic resonance (MR) is the imaging technique of election in the evaluation of the articular pathology. MR arthrography (MRA) consists of the direct punction of the joint with intraarticular injection of diluted gadolinium or saline solution. MRA produces distention of the capsular recess, delineates the intraarticular structures and separates annexed structures of difficult evaluation, with which it is able to improve the reliability diagnoses of the articular and periarticular pathology.

[Magnetic resonance arthrography indications and technique (I). Upper limb].

Magnetic resonance (MR) is the most effective imaging technique in the diagnosis of articular pathology. MR arthrography (MRA), with intra-articular injection of diluted gadolinium or physiological saline solution has become more common in recent years. The intra-articular fluid facilitates the detection of articular pathology by delineating the articular structures, separating adjacent anatomic structures, and filling potential spaces that originate in or communicate with the joint.

Magnetic resonance urography: a pictorial overview.

Magnetic resonance urography (MRU) can be performed on the basis of two different imaging strategies: static-fluid MRU, based on heavily T2 weighted turbo spin echo (TSE) sequences, and gadolinium-enhanced excretory MRU. Both MR urographic techniques in combination with standard MRI permit a comprehensive examination of the entire urinary tract. This pictorial review illustrates the MRU features of the a wide spectrum of pathological conditions affecting the urinary tract.

Wrist MR arthrography: how, why, when.

MR imaging of the wrist frequently represents a diagnostic challenge for radiologists because of the complex anatomy of this joint, small size of its components, and little known pathologic conditions. MR arthrography combines the advantages of conventional MR imaging and arthrography by improving the visualization of small intra-articular abnormalities. This article reviews the current role of MR arthrography in the evaluation of wrist joint disorders considering the relevant aspects of anatomy, techniques, and applications.

Ankle MR arthrography: how, why, when.

MR arthrography has become an important tool for the assessment of a variety of ankle disorders. MR arthrography may facilitate the evaluation of patients with suspected intra-articular pathology in whom conventional MR imaging is not sufficient for an adequate diagnosis and be useful for therapy planning. MR arthrography is valuable in the evaluation of ligamentous injuries, impingement syndromes, cartilage lesions, osteochondral lesions of the talus, loose bodies, and several synovial joint disorders.