Abstract
Background This pilot study explored the value of a dedicated extremity magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI) scanner by focusing on the qualitative depiction of important wrist structures
in common wrist pathologies, the overall image quality, artifacts, and participant
experience in undergoing the examinations.
Methods Images of the right wrist of 10 healthy adult volunteers were acquired with a 0.31-Tesla
(T) dedicated extremity MRI and a 3-T MRI system, using a dedicated wrist coil. Images
were separately evaluated by three radiologists. Paired images were randomized and
graded for the visibility of anatomical details, including the triangular fibrocartilage
complex (TFCC; central disc, meniscus homolog, and ulnar attachment), carpal ligaments
(scapholunate [SL] and lunotriquetral [LT] ligaments), intercarpal cartilage, and
median and ulnar nerves. Mean values and standard deviations of evaluation results
were calculated for each sequence. Participants' experience in undergoing the examination
in both MRI scanners was explored using a questionnaire.
Results The mean values of anatomic structures and overall image quality were significantly
in favor of the 3-T MRI scanner, compared with the dedicated extremity MRI scanner.
With respect to patient satisfaction in undergoing the examination, the overall trend
suggested that patients were more in favor of the dedicated extremity MRI scanner.
Conclusion For defining the real clinical value of the dedicated MRI scanner in the treatment
of hand and wrist pathology, studies focused on pathologies are needed, which is certainly
warranted, considering the important benefits of these devices including lower costs
and higher accessibility for both patients and health care providers.
Keywords
magnetic resonance imaging - dedicated - extremity - hand - wrist
