How to Report: Elbow MRI

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Imaging
• Radiology

Background:

• Elbow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is performed less frequently than other major joint imaging.
• Radiologists may encounter challenges due to less familiarity with elbow-specific pathologies and reporting standards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of common elbow pathologies detectable via MRI.
• To emphasize key imaging features crucial for accurate diagnosis and reporting.
• To offer standardized terminology for describing elbow abnormalities in radiology reports.

Main Methods:

• Review of common elbow pathologies and their MRI appearances.
• Emphasis on specific imaging findings requiring detailed reporting.
• Inclusion of example terminology for describing abnormalities.

Main Results:

• Identification of key pathologies including tendinopathies, ligament injuries, and intra-articular abnormalities.
• Highlighting the importance of specific sequences and views for optimal visualization.
• Providing clear descriptive terms for common elbow MRI findings.

Conclusions:

• Standardized reporting of elbow MRI findings enhances diagnostic accuracy.
• Familiarity with elbow pathologies and terminology improves radiologist confidence and report quality.
• This resource aids radiologists in effectively interpreting and reporting elbow MRI examinations.