Abnormalities of the foot and ankle: MR imaging findings

Although plain film radiography remains the appropriate imaging technique used in the initial evaluation of ankle and foot disorders, MR imaging has rapidly become important because it provides high soft-tissue contrast and multiplanar capability, and because it can detect subtle marrow abnormalities. MR imaging is most useful for evaluating pathologic processes that involve soft-tissue structures and for evaluating patients whose clinical findings remain unexplained despite normal findings with other imaging techniques. This pictorial essay illustrates various applications for MR imaging of the foot and ankle.