3T Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Ankle and Hindfoot Tendon Pathology

Abstract

Ankle tendon pathology is relatively common in the active adult population. Magnetic resonance imaging is often the preferred advanced imaging option for the evaluation of tendon pathology of the hindfoot and ankle. The almost linear increase in signal-to-noise ratio provided by higher field strength imaging allows for improved image resolution and decreased scan times. Newer systems with faster gradients allow for optimal fast spin-echo imaging with lower echo spacing for longer echo train lengths and minimal image blurring. The ability to comfortably scan the ankle within the magnet isocenter using high-field strength-compatible extremity coils further maximizes the image resolution. It is imperative for the radiologist to be aware of necessary protocol adjustments and potential imaging artifacts unique to high-field strength imaging of the ankle. Our review outlines high-field strength magnetic resonance imaging technique and artifacts and also details the specifics of our own methods of ankle imaging.

Short‐term exercise‐induced changes in hydration state of healthy achilles tendons can be visualized by effects of off‐resonant radiofrequency saturation in a three‐dimensional ultrashort echo time MRI sequence applied at 3 tesla

“…In this context, imaging techniques are increasingly requested for initial diagnosis as well as for monitoring of tendon structure under various therapeutic approaches. Besides conventional ultrasound imaging that is reported to provide a quick noninvasive and nonexpensive diagnostic tool with a high spatial resolution, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging represents another powerful imaging method as it permits three‐dimensional (3D) imaging with excellent soft tissue contrast . In the context of MRI, one has to keep in mind that the highly ordered microstructure of the collagen fibers results in an extremely fast signal decay of the Achilles tendon tissue with effective transverse relaxation times typically below T2* < 1 ms and, thus, in combination with a relatively low content of free water protons healthy Achilles tendons usually appear “black” in conventionally used MRI sequences .…”

Peroneal Tenography to Evaluate Lateral Hindfoot Pain after Calcaneal Fracture

“…Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an advanced imaging option for the evaluation of hindfoot and ankle tendon pathology. 3 MRI can provide detailed evaluation of all soft tissues, bones and joints in multiple planes in a single study. 20 However, small osteophytes, spurs, or fracture fragments may not be visualized on MR imaging, which may be indistinguishable from adjacent tendons.…”

Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging of the foot and ankle

“…In the preoperative setting, higher field strength imaging (3T) has resulted in high resolution imaging of trabecular bone and tendon in the foot and ankle (7, 8). The improvement in the signal‐to‐noise ratio provided by higher field strength imaging certainly allows for improved image resolution and possibly decreased scan times, especially if parallel imaging is employed; however, there is increased susceptibility artifact encountered with higher field strengths, limiting its utility in the postoperative setting (9, 10). Potential improvements in image quality when using higher field strengths can further be obtained by using high‐field strength‐compatible dedicated extremity coils; however, in general, an eight channel coil array or dual‐channel quadrature extremity foot and ankle coil can provide diagnostic images either at 1.5T or 3T (9, 10).…”