Abstract
Advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology now enable the feasible three-dimensional
(3D) acquisition of images. With respect to the imaging of musculoskeletal (MSK) tumors,
literature is beginning to accumulate on the use of 3D MRI acquisition for tumor detection
and characterization. The benefits of 3D MRI, including general advantages, such as
decreased acquisition time, isotropic resolution, and increased image quality, are
not only inherently useful for tumor imaging, but they also contribute to the feasibility
of more specialized tumor-imaging techniques, such as whole-body MRI, and are reviewed
here. Disadvantages of 3D acquisition, such as motion artifact and equipment requirements,
do exist and are also discussed. Although further study is needed, 3D MRI acquisition
will likely prove increasingly useful in the evaluation of patients with tumors of
the MSK system.
Keywords
3D MRI - musculoskeletal tumors - MRI acquisition time - tumor detection - tumor characterization
