Magnetic resonance imaging of focal articular cartilage lesions

Lesions of the articular cartilage now are recognized as a common, often treatable source of joint disability. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of articular cartilage is a sensitive, noninvasive method for the detection of focal articular cartilage lesions. Advancement in imaging technology now allows for high spatial resolution acquisitions that are able to identify most cartilage lesions, and these acquisitions can be incorporated into everyday clinical imaging protocols. Thus, screening for cartilage abnormalities can be accomplished, along with routine evaluation for ligament and meniscal abnormalities. Familiarity with the appearances of normal cartilage and the full spectrum of cartilage lesions will aid in specific diagnoses. Grading and sizing of cartilage lesions and any underlying bony abnormalities on MRI can help the surgeon in treatment planning; however, some significant cartilage lesions can be difficult to identify and grade by MRI.