Efficacy of magnetic resonance imaging of the elbow

Elbow dysfunction is usually related to acute or chronic injury to the soft tissue components of the elbow. Prior to the development and application of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), radiologic evaluation of the elbow was primarily limited to the detection of osseous abnormalities. The value of MRI to accurately determine the nature and extent of the pathologic changes in ligaments, tendons, muscles, and the osseous structures of the elbow joint is presented in the following discussion.