[MR tomography (MRT) of the skeleton, peripheral soft tissues and joints--current overview]

A review: The skeleton, the peripheral soft tissues, and the joints have become important indications to use MRI routinely. About 25-35% of daily examinations focus on these anatomic sites. Superior contrast resolution, the option of different imaging planes, and the unsurpassed visualization of bone marrow, fibrous and hyaline cartilage, ligaments, and tendons are the reasons for the overwhelming success of this imaging method. MRI often provides the direct way to diagnosis. More and more the so-called "step by step" approach to diagnosis by imaging methods is being abandoned in favor of the primary use of MRI. The present survey summarizes the main indications for MRI in the field of the musculoskeletal system, in adults as well as in children. Special topics like tumors, inflammation, ischemia, and trauma are discussed. Some anatomic sites like the carpal joint, the shoulder, and the knee are presented in more detail.