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S Schimmerl1, H Schurawitzki, H Imhof
1MR-Institut, Universität Wien.
Rofo : Fortschritte Auf Dem Gebiete Der Rontgenstrahlen Und Der Nuklearmedizin
|June 1, 1991
Summary
Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging aids in diagnosing and treating reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS). MR can differentiate disease stages, guiding therapy and evaluating its effectiveness without radiation.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Neurology
Background:
- Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS) presents diagnostic challenges.
- Conventional imaging like X-rays and bone scans have limitations in assessing both bone and soft tissue involvement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic and therapeutic value of Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging in patients with suspected reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS).
- To assess MR's capability for simultaneous evaluation of bone and soft tissue changes in RSDS.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 20 patients with clinically diagnosed RSDS and positive conventional imaging.
- MR imaging performed using T1- and T2-weighted sequences before and after Gadolinium-DTPA administration.
- Correlation of MR findings with histopathological changes.
Main Results:
- MR demonstrated characteristic signal intensity changes in both soft tissues and bone.
- These changes were classifiable and correlated with histopathological findings.
- MR enabled differentiation between clinical stages of RSDS, aiding in therapy evaluation.
Conclusions:
- MR imaging is a valuable tool for the diagnosis and management of reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS).
- It offers simultaneous assessment of bone and soft tissue, facilitating staging and therapeutic monitoring.
- Despite higher costs, MR's efficiency and lack of radiation justify its use.