Magnetic resonance imaging of musculoskeletal neoplasms

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become a valuable technique in the evaluation of the musculoskeletal system. Its superior soft-tissue contrast and its ability to image in multiple planes provide significant advantages over other imaging techniques, including computed tomography. MRI has been particularly useful in the detection and staging of musculoskeletal neoplasms. Currently, it is the technique of choice for the evaluation of soft-tissue masses and many skeletal neoplasms. MRI is also useful in the evaluation of metastasis. The role of MRI in differentiating recurrent neoplasms from postoperative and radiation changes continues to evolve; spectroscopy may add considerable specificity in this setting.