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Disorders of the upper extremity in children
1Department of Radiology, Shriners Hospital for Children, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Clinics of North America
|July 9, 1998
Summary
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is a valuable tool for diagnosing pediatric upper extremity conditions, including congenital anomalies, injuries, infections, and tumors. Gadolinium contrast helps visualize active inflammation in conditions like arthritis and synovitis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Radiology
- Musculoskeletal Imaging
- Advanced Diagnostic Techniques
Background:
- The pediatric upper extremity presents unique diagnostic challenges.
- Accurate imaging is crucial for timely and effective treatment of pediatric musculoskeletal disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging indications for pediatric upper extremity disorders.
- To highlight the utility of MR imaging in various congenital, traumatic, inflammatory, infectious, and neoplastic conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of MR imaging applications in pediatric upper extremity pathology.
- Emphasis on the role of Gadolinium-enhanced MR imaging.
- Description of imaging appearances for specific conditions.
Main Results:
- MR imaging is indicated for congenital anomalies (Sprengel shoulder, Poland sequence, arthrogryposis).
- MR imaging is essential for evaluating post-traumatic lesions (cartilage, bone, tendon, muscle, nerve, brachial plexus).
- MR imaging aids in diagnosing inflammatory arthritis, synovitis, bone/joint infections, osteochondritis dissecans, bone necrosis, and tumors.
Conclusions:
- MR imaging is a versatile diagnostic modality for a wide spectrum of pediatric upper extremity conditions.
- Gadolinium administration enhances visualization of active inflammation, particularly synovial enhancement in arthritis and synovitis.