Information that orthopedists still need to know and what is missing from the MR images of the wrist

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has a very established role in imaging many pathologic conditions in the wrist. MRI provides useful clinical information regarding neoplastic processes. It also provides valuable information in the evaluation of tendons and synovium in rheumatoid arthritis. However, it has been and is less useful when early ligamentous injuries, including grade I and grade II scapholunate and lunotriquetral ligament lesions, are suspected. Also, information regarding cartilage injuries and degeneration, especially in wrist instabilities, would be more than desirable for treating orthopedists and hand surgeons. However, at the current stage, this information is missing, and only the more advanced changes are seen in MRI. This article describes and explains clinical entities in which that information would help patient care and management.