Comparison of High-field and Low-field Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Stifle Joint Disorders in Dogs

Abstract

The most common cause of hindlimb lameness in dogs is cranial cruciate ligament rupture. In 48-77.3% of the population this trauma leads to secondary damage of the meniscus. Depending on the magnetic strength of the used device, different diagnostic accuracy can be achieved. The examination sensitivity of magnetic resonance imaging is affected by many factors which are independent of diagnostic strength, such as correct positioning of the patient, size of the stifle joint examined, or selection of the right protocol of sequences. Sensitivity of meniscus damage detection was 100% and 90%, respectively, in high-and low-field magnetic resonance. The best results were reported during examination of the stifle in dogs above 10 kg b.w. at a flexion angle of 145 o , and in sagittal and dorsal planes. Regardless of the magnetic strength applied, imaging of the whole cranial cruciate ligament is difficult. Moreover, MRI allows the detection of the first signs of osteoarthritis, which were observed 4 and 6 weeks after rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament using high and low-field MRI. This also applies to lesions in the subchondral bone or a bone marrow which occurred in association with insufficiency of the stifle joint, and were mainly localized in the epiphysis of the femur and tibia. The present article provides a comparison of different examination protocols and images of damaged stifle structures, such as menisci, ligaments and bones of the stifle joint visualized with low-field and high-field magnetic resonance. Magnetic resonance arthrography is also discussed.

Development of Real-Time Kinematic Magnetic Resonance Imaging (kMRI) Techniques for Studying the Kinematics of the Spine and Joints in Dogs—Preliminary Study on Cadavers

“…Among the currently available diagnostic imaging techniques, MRI can provide the greatest range of information and the finest accuracy in detecting subtle abnormalities due to the highest soft tissue contrasts [ 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 ]. Conventional MRI studies are conducted at functional rest, but some spinal or orthopedical diseases, characterized by articular instability and a dynamic component, can be underestimated when imaged in these conditions [ 10 ].…”

“…Magnetic resonance imaging is an excellent advanced imaging tool for the study of both orthopedic [ 3 , 4 , 5 ] and neurological diseases [ 6 , 7 ]. Due to its high soft tissue contrast, musculoskeletal structures (i.e., tendons, ligaments, fascial and synovial membranes), nervous structures, blood vessels, and osseous tissues can be clearly assessed and evaluated for pathological changes [ 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 ]. Conventional MRI studies are usually performed at functional rest.…”

Magnetic resonance imaging of equine stifles: Technique and observations in 76 clinical cases

“…The authors concluded that both systems are reliable in diagnosing meniscal tears and ruptures of the anterior cruciate ligament (Kladny et al ). Similarly in dogs, high‐ and low‐field MRI allowed for early detection of osteoarthritis, cranial cruciate ligament and subchondral bone or bone marrow lesions (Przeworski et al ). Similar to other advanced imaging modalities of the stifle (Crijns et al ; Judy ), general anaesthesia for MRI is required to eliminate rocking motion of the proximal limb that would occur during standing procedures.…”

Clinical applications of imaging modalities of the carpal joint in dogs with particular reference to the carpal canal

“…Rupture of the accessory metacarpal ligaments and the associated soft tissue trauma are caused by hyperextension subluxation injuries and can be identified on MRI. This imaging modality can also detect joint effusion, peritendinous fluid accumulation, foreign bodies, and osteomyelitis (1,29,31). MRI is typically performed in several different acquisition sequences that emphasise different magnetic properties of tissues; commonly T1-and T2weighted and proton density (PD) properties are illustrated.…”