High-Resolution and Three-Dimensional MR Imaging in Musculoskeletal Radiology

Avneesh Chhabra, MD, MBA, FACR, Editor

Flavio Duarte Silva, MD, PhD, Editor

Technological advancements, such as coil design, pulse sequence development, acceleration techniques, and postprocessing methods, have paved the way for the clinical implementation of high-resolution and three-dimensional (3D) techniques without affecting scan times or patient comfort. Improved in-plane and through-plane image resolution and multiplanar capability provide exquisite anatomic detail, and enhanced tissue characterization that can be translated in accuracy, greater diagnostic confidence, and improved clinical outcomes. These techniques are becoming routine in tertiary care practices with individualistic medicine aiming at providing high-end diagnostic care to the patients.

This issue of Radiologic Clinics of North America has the privilege of gathering leading experts in the field of musculoskeletal radiology, attaining comprehensive reviews that enclose both the technical foundations and the diagnostic benefits of high-resolution and 3D extremity and joint imaging. The work highlights the use of advanced techniques for evaluating upper- and lower-extremity intricate anatomy and injury patterns affecting tendons, ligaments, cartilage, nerve, and bone, while also exposing traditional two-dimensional (2D) MR imaging weaknesses that can be overcome by 3D techniques. Several case examples have been shown with comparative findings on 2D and 3D MR imaging so that the reader can gain the needed knowledge of various advantages and pitfalls of such techniques.

We expect this collection of novel works will serve as an excellent and cutting-edge educational resource and a practical guide for radiologists desiring to explore new frontiers in MR imaging, especially structure-specific reconstructions for superior depiction of anatomy and lesions of fine musculoskeletal structures. Another article on radiology reporting and data systems (RADS) is included that discusses available scoring systems in the domain of musculoskeletal radiology. The readers can use that knowledge for standardized scoring of different musculoskeletal pathologic conditions, including bone and soft tissue tumors and tumorlike lesions, peripheral nerves, and infections. By coupling technological innovation with clinical application, this issue emphasizes the pivotal role of high-resolution and 3D MR imaging in musculoskeletal imaging and its continuing contribution toward optimizing patient care. Enjoy this innovative set of articles in this exciting issue of Radiologic Clinics of North America !