Avascular necrosis of the vertebral body: MR imaging

Article Abstract:

The loss of blood supply to a bone can result in death of the portion which is served by the damaged vessels (avascular necrosis). In the case of the spine individual vertebrae can undergo such destruction. This case report on five patients demonstrates the distinct appearance of such vertebral damage when viewed with a relatively new technique, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In MRI a computer presents anatomic data regarding the bones and soft-tissues with often surprising clarity. The MR image is formed through the use of an extremely powerful magnet and the interaction of radio waves and, unlike conventional radiologic methods, does not require ionizing radiation (X-ray). In avascular necrosis the vertebra appears collapsed, but the image is distinct from the appearance of vertebral collapse due to neoplasm (cancer) or infection. Recognition of this pattern is important for radiologists making a differential diagnosis based on a finding of vertebral collapse (vertebral compression fractures).

Bones, Vertebrae, Spine, Osteonecrosis

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Herniation pits of the femoral neck: appearance at MR imaging

Article Abstract:

The present clinical study evaluates the use and promise of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for evaluating the bones and soft-tissues of the hip joint. With MRI a computer presents anatomic data of the bones and soft-tissues with often surprising clarity. The MR image is formed through the use of an extremely powerful magnet and the interaction of radio waves. Unlike conventional radiologic methods MRI does not require ionizing radiation (X-ray). MRI has been used in one case to locate and characterize benign pits in the neck of the femur (upper part of the thigh bone) which could be confused with other significant pathologies of the area (e.g., tumors and avascular necrosis). Herniation pits cause no pain and are described as incidental findings during radiologic examinations. The characteristic appearance in MRI, with other radiologic data, should allow for a differential diagnosis of this benign finding.

Abnormalities, Hip joint, Femur

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Avulsion of the posteromedial tibial plateau by the semimembranosus tendon: diagnosis with MR imaging

Article Abstract:

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was used to demonstrate sports-related knee injuries resulting in small fractures at the posteromedial corner of the tibial plateau. At MR imaging examination, the bone derangements in the cases studied were noted in the immediate site of the insertion of the central tendon of the semimembranosus muscle, consistent with a tearing injury. Prior to this study, tearing fracture related to the semimembranosus insertion had not been specifically described. The prevalence of this lesion in cases of knee injury is unknown. These cases illustrate the potential utility of MR imaging in identifying the mechanism of injury in instances of musculoskeletal trauma.

Injuries, Diagnosis, Knee, Knee injuries, Tibia, Fractures, Ununited, Ununited fractures

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