Osteomyelitis of the foot in diabetic patients: evaluation with magnetic resonance imaging

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging examination was performed with a 1.5-Tesla superconducting magnet on a diabetic patient's right foot that had extensive deformities due to previous surgery, infection, and neuropathy. The purpose of the examination was to help identify areas of active infection in preparation for surgical debridement. This manuscript reviews current concepts on the use of radionucleotide scanning and computed tomography (CT) as compared to MR imaging when used to assist in the diagnosis of osteomyelitis in the diabetic foot. MR imaging was found to be useful in identifying areas of active bone infection in the presence of underlying osseous pathology when radiographic images and radionucleotide scans were unreliable.