Elbow magnetic resonance imaging variants and pitfalls

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Elbow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) interpretation can be complicated by normal anatomical variations.
• These variations may mimic pathologies, leading to potential diagnostic errors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight common imaging variants and potential pitfalls in elbow MRI.
• To aid radiologists in accurately differentiating normal findings from abnormalities.

Main Methods:

• Review of common magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in the elbow.
• Identification of anatomical variants that can simulate pathology.
• Discussion of technical factors influencing image quality and interpretation.

Main Results:

• Signal inhomogeneities and coil positioning can cause apparent abnormalities.
• Bone variants (red marrow, capitellum pseudodefect) and intra-articular structures (plicae) may be misinterpreted.
• Tendinous variations (distal biceps/triceps) and ulnar nerve changes are frequent sources of diagnostic uncertainty.

Conclusions:

• Familiarity with normal elbow variants is essential for accurate MRI interpretation.
• Understanding potential pitfalls improves diagnostic confidence and reduces misdiagnosis.