The effect of intra-articular gadolinium-DTPA on synovial membrane and cartilage.

This investigation evaluated the potential effect of gadolinium (Gd)-DTPA-dimeglumine on synovial membrane and joint cartilage, using macroscopic, microscopic, and x-ray fluorescent spectroscopic techniques. Thirteen New Zealand white rabbits (26 knees) were used in this study, ten receiving 500 micromolar injections of Gd-DTPA-dimeglumine in their right knees; the remainder of the knees served as controls. One injected knee had minimal joint effusion and one had mild hyperemia. Microscopically four knees exhibited mild focal hyperplasia of the synovium, another three minimal focal mononuclear cell infiltration. X-ray fluorescent spectroscopy demonstrated no evidence of Gd-DTPA-dimeglumine in the synovium or articular cartilage. Neither macroscopic nor microscopic evaluation detected any Gd-DTPA-dimeglumine related effects. Gd-DTPA-dimeglumine was found to be safe for intra-articular injection in this animal model.

Carpal tunnel syndrome: morphologic changes after release of the transverse carpal ligament.

We describe the morphologic changes that follow division of the transverse carpal ligament in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Fifteen hands in 12 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome were studied with magnetic resonance imaging before operation and for 6 weeks after operation. Eight hands were studied at 8 months after operation. Carpal arch width, anterior displacement of the carpal canal contents, and carpal canal volume were measured by use of multiplanar reformation and three-dimensional reconstruction of magnetic resonance images. There was a 24.2 +/- 11.6% increase in carpal canal volume 6 weeks after carpal tunnel release (p less than 0.001). This difference persisted at 8-month follow-up. There was an anterior displacement of carpal canal contents 3.5 +/- 1.9 mm from its original position 6 weeks after operation (p less than 0.001). This palmar displacement persisted at the 8-month follow-up. There was no statistically significant increase in carpal arch width 8 months after carpal tunnel release. We believe that division of the transverse carpal ligament restores median nerve function by increasing the volume of the carpal canal. This volumetric increase results from an anterior displacement of the newly formed transverse carpal ligament and not from a widening of the bony carpal arch.

Radiologic search for embolized leaflets of prosthetic heart valves: a report of two cases.

In a radiologic search for embolized leaflets of Edwards-Duromedics bileaflet valves in 2 patients, the embolized fragments were localized in the iliac vessels using computed tomography. Sonography was successful in one case and standard X-ray films of the abdomen were negative in both cases. In vitro investigations with Björk-Shiley and Edwards-Duromedics leaflets suggested that standard X-ray films of the abdomen and pelvis should be considered as the first investigational technique. If negative, computed tomography of the lower abdomen should be done.

Fibrous metaphyseal defects. Magnetic resonance imaging appearances.

Sixteen patients with fibrous metaphyseal defects were examined with both plain radiography and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Depending on the age of the fibrous metaphyseal defects, characteristic radiomorphologic changes were found which correlated well with MR images. Following intravenous Gadolinium-DTPA injection, fibrous metaphyseal defects invariably exhibited a hyperintense border and signal enhancement. Healed lesions exhibited a transition to normal bone marrow. A line through the maximum longitudinal diameter of a fibrous metaphyseal defect invariably led to a point of tendinous or ligamentous insertion. Coronal MR images demonstrated the maximum longitudinal extension and the respective inserting tendon or ligamentous structure at the epiphyseal line.

[Intratemporal course of the facial nerve in magnetic resonance imaging]. / Der intratemporale Verlauf des Nervus facialis in der Magnetic Resonance-(MR) Darstellung.

MR images of the intratemporal portion of the facial nerve were obtained with a 1.5 Tesla permanent magnet whole-body imaging system. The facial nerve was followed from the internal auditory through the temporal bone to the styloid foramen. MR promises to be a sensitive method for the evaluation of intratemporal facial nerve diseases.

[Magnetic resonance tomography as a localization method in hyperparathyroidism]. / Magnet-Resonanztomographie (MRT) als Lokalisationsmethode bei Hyperparathyreoidismus.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRT) was performed in 36 consecutive patients with hyperparathyroidism. MR tomograms of 31 patients were evaluated and compared with the results of operation and histology (n = 29). In the remaining 5 patients MR examination was not completed, due to claustrophobia or motion artefacts. MR examinations were performed in 2 superconductive magnets (0.5 and 1.5 Tesla). A surface coil with following spinecho sequences was used: SE: TR/TE: 550-700/15-30; 2000/22-100. All patients were subjected to additional sonography. Out of 28 parathyroid adenomas 25 were identified on MR tomograms (sensitivity: 73%, specificity: 90%). However, only 2 out of 6 hyperplastic parathyroid glands were localized on MR tomograms. Lesions missed on MR tomograms measured 15 mm and less in diameter. It is characteristic that parathyroid adenomas showed isointense MR signal to the thyroid (SE 550/30 and hyperintense MR signal to fat (SE 2000/100). Different signal intensities of the adenomas were observed in 25% of the cases. MR imaging is a valuable diagnostic method for preoperative localisation of parathyroid adenomas. We think that MR imaging should be performed when sonography and subtraction scintigraphy are not able to identify a suspected adenoma in the same location.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the lower vertebral column in patients with multiple myeloma.

Eighteen patients with multiple myeloma (clinical stages 1-3) and a control group of 21 persons underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies of the lower thoracic and lumbar spine. This was done to determine the potential benefit of MRI in addition to conventional radiographs, tomograms, computed tomography and nuclear scans. In addition to focal fatty replacement of normal hematopoietic marrow, which presented as focal hyperintense lesions on T1-weighted images (T1-WI) and on T2-weighted images (T2-WI), two types of myelomatous lesions were found: (1) focal areas with reduced signal intensity when compared with normal bone marrow on T1-WI and enhanced signal intensity on T2-WI, mainly found in untreated myelomas; and (2) focal areas of decreased signal intensity on T1-WI and on T2-WI, which were predominantly detected after previous radiation therapy. MRI surpassed conventional radiography in detecting abnormal focal marrow infiltration in 41 of 247 vertebrae. Radiographs identified only 11 of the 41 as pathologic, based on shape and structure of the vertebral bodies; however, 15 other collapsed vertebrae showed no signal abnormalities of the marrow on MR images. Discrimination of normals and abnormals by statistical analysis of intensity measurements of the bone marrow was not possible.

Skeletal involvement in hairy cell leukemia.

The clinical and radiographic aspects of two patients with destructive bone lesions, complicating the course of hairy cell leukemia are presented. The findings are compared with those of 27 previously published cases. The most prominent features of this rare skeletal disorder are osteolysis and widespread or localized demineralisation with predilection for the femoral head and neck. Localized persisting pain is the leading clinical symptom in all cases. Magnetic resonance imaging is helpful in evaluating the extent of bone marrow infiltration and demonstrates focal areas of decreased signal intensity in sites of radiographically detectable bone destruction as well as in bones that appear normal on plain films.

[Focal fatty deposits in spinal bone marrow--MR findings. MRI of focal fatty deposits]. / Fokale Fetteinschlüsse im Knochenmark der Wirbelsäule--MR-Befunde. MRI fokaler Fetteinschlüsse.

MR tomograms of the spines of 121 patients were reviewed in order to assess the incidence and distribution of focal fat deposits in axial bone marrow. In addition, three cadaver spines were examined and cut with a band saw for macroscopic and histologic correlation. Yellow areas, histologically representing fatty replacement of hematopoetic marrow, were found macroscopically; their location was in precise correspondence to areas of focal enhanced signal intensity on T1-WI as well as T2-WI. The incidence of those focal fat spots was related to age, but not to sex; in different diseases like scoliosis, porosis and after cytostatic therapy of different malignomas they were found more frequently than in the average of the sample. Focal fatty replacement of hematopoetic bone marrow is obviously a normal phenomenon and should not be misinterpreted as a pathologic condition.

The high signal intensity meniscus of the knee. Magnetic resonance evaluation and in vivo correlation.

This study describes the different appearances of meniscal abnormalities on magnetic resonance (MR) images and correlates macroscopic and histologic findings. Twenty-three of 40 cadaveric menisci with MR signal abnormalities were examined macroscopically; five of the 23 were studied histologically. In addition, MR studies of seven patients (14 menisci) were examined and findings were correlated arthroscopically. Histologic analysis was performed on two of these menisci. The two major findings on MR images were: (1) abnormal, high, centrally located signal intensity within the meniscus and (2) disruption of the peripheral meniscal contour. Macroscopically evident meniscal degeneration correlated well with findings on MR images in all cases. Histologic abnormalities included microcyst formation and separation of collagen bundles. Four menisci with intact outer contour lines on MR images had macroscopically identifiable tears. In addition, two meniscal tears were appreciated only after intra-articular injection of gadolinium-DTPA. We conclude that MR imaging is superior to macroscopic examination as performed by arthroscopy or arthrotomy for the detection of degenerative meniscal lesions. The technique also accurately identifies meniscal tears, a capability that might be enhanced by prior intra-articular injection of MR contrast agents.

[Magnetic resonance tomography (MRT) of the scrotum--initial results and comparison with sonography. I: Normal anatomy and extratesticular pathology]. / Magnetische Resonanztomographie (MRT) des Skrotum--erste Ergebnisse und Vergleich mit der Sonographie. Teil I: Normale Anatomie und extratestikuläre Pathologie.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows for precise assessment of all important anatomic structures of the scrotum. Because the differences in signal intensity on T2-weighted images are adequate and there is high detail and contrast resolution in surface coil technique, the delineation of normal and pathologic structures greater than 1 mm is possible. Imaging in the coronal plane is preferable to that in the axial and sagittal plane. Other advantages of MRI include the possibility of comparing both hemiscrota in one imaging plane and the assessment of the inguinal region. In addition, MRI is less dependent on the expertise of the investigator. For the assessment of extratesticular pathology, MRI has advantages over other imaging techniques - including sonography - since the delineation of pathologic changes is much clearer.

[Magnetic resonance tomography (MRT) of the scrotum--initial results and comparison with sonography. II: Intratesticular pathology]. / Magnetische Resonanztomographie (MRT) des Skrotum--erste Ergebnisse und Vergleich mit der Sonographie. Teil II: Intratestikuläre Pathologie.

The wide differences in signal intensity in the scrotum provide an excellent background for the assessment of intratesticular pathology. Besides hemorrhage, all intratesticular pathologic changes have lower signal intensities than surrounding normal testicular tissue. Proton density- and T1-weighted images are essential for the characterization of hematomas, abscesses and hydroceles. Clear delineation of the tunica albuginea is necessary for precise assessment of trauma and tumors. Because a ruptured tunica albuginea can be visualized and because of its high sensitivity, MRI is superior to sonography in the diagnosis of trauma and orchitis. In addition, MRI is the imaging modality of choice for characterization and precise assessment of tumor size as well as for the exclusion of pathologic changes.

Carpal tunnel volume determination by magnetic resonance imaging three-dimensional reconstruction.

Three-dimensional computer reconstruction of magnetic resonance images (MRI) of ten cadaveric specimens was used to determine carpal tunnel volume and carpal arch width. Magnetic resonance images-acquired data were compared with direct measurement of cadaveric carpal canal volume by means of a silicone-injection technique. Mean MRI three-dimensional reconstruction volume was 5.84 ml +/- 1.24 ml. Mean silicone-mold volume was 4.73 +/- 1.01 ml. A correction factor of 0.8161 was used to accurately calculate carpal tunnel volume from MRI-acquired data. There was no significant difference between calculated carpal tunnel volumes and silicone-mold volumes (p = 0.623), and there was a linear relationship between MRI-acquired volumes and silicone-mold volumes (correlation coefficient r = 0.97). Differences in MRI-volume determinations between observers were not significant (0.25 greater than or equal to p greater than 0.1). MRI three-dimensional reconstruction, a valid and reproducible technique for measuring carpal tunnel volume and dimensions, has considerable research potential for the evaluation of the relationship between the carpal canal and its contents before and after carpal tunnel release.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spinous processes and adjacent soft tissues: normal and pathologic appearances.

The spinous processes and intervening soft tissues of the lumbar region may be involved by degenerative, inflammatory, neoplastic, and traumatic processes resulting in low back pain. While conventional radiography and computed tomography have proven useful in the demonstration of abnormalities affecting the spinous processes, they are of limited utility in the evaluation of the intervening soft tissues, which are the predominant site of initial pathologic involvement. To explore the potential role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the assessment of the spinous processes and adjacent ligaments, a retrospective review of 55 consecutive examinations of the lumbar spine was performed. The normal and pathologic appearances of the region on both T1 and T2 weighted images were characterized, and the optimal imaging variables for demonstration of the spinous processes and adjacent soft tissues were determined with subsequent prospective application to new cases. Correlative examination of cadaveric sections and dried specimens was also performed to facilitate understanding of anatomical relationships visualized by MRI. Based upon the results of this investigation, MRI is the procedure of choice in the evaluation of disease processes affecting the spinous processes and intervening ligaments, primarily owing to the ability to image directly in the sagittal plane and its superior soft tissue contrast discrimination capability.

Potential contrast agents for MR arthrography: in vitro evaluation and practical observations.

In an attempt to identify an ideal contrast agent for MR arthrography, signal behavior as well as T1 and T2 values for articular cartilage, menisci, and ligaments were determined in knees from cadavers and normal volunteers. Comparison was made with similar data derived for intraarticular blood, varying concentrations of an albumin-saline solution (simulating synovial fluid) and Gd-DTPA, 0.9% saline, Renografin 60%, and air. Cadaveric specimens were imaged after intraarticular administration of each substance. A 500-microM volume of Gd-DTPA proved to be an ideal contrast agent for MR arthrography, exhibiting excellent contrast differences with articular structures on T1-weighted images. An albumin concentration of 12%, potentially occurring in severe inflammatory arthritis, also manifested adequate contrast to articular cartilage on T1-weighted images. Renografin and saline provided inadequate contrast on T1-weighted images, and saline necessitated the use of T2-weighted sequences. Air was not found to be an optimal contrast agent. Intraarticular blood exhibited insufficient contrast differences with articular cartilage during the acute hemorrhagic phase. Synovial fluid associated with severe arthritis as compared with fresh intraarticular hemorrhage may thus prove to be a better biological contrast agent for MR arthrography. Saline is currently recommended for use in arthrography, but Gd-DTPA offers significant advantages and should be safety-tested for potential clinical use.

Localization grid for MR-guided biopsy.

A localization grid for use with magnetic resonance (MR)-guided biopsies was designed and evaluated. First, the signal intensities of various concentrations of Gd-DTPA in polyethylene tubes of different sizes and at various pulse sequences were evaluated. The optimal signal intensity on all pulse sequences was obtained with a concentration of 500 microM. A grid was then made with 5-mm-diameter polyethylene tubes filled with 500-microM Gd-DTPA. The grid has provided excellent localization for MR-guided biopsy and fluid aspiration.

Articular cartilage defects: detectability in cadaver knees with MR.

The capability of 1.5-T MR imaging to detect focal defects in articular cartilage was investigated with cadaveric knees with and without intraarticular injection of saline and gadolinium-DTPA (Gd-DTPA). Full-thickness cartilage lesions ranging in diameter from 1 to 5 mm were surgically created in the femoral articular surfaces. Images were acquired with a variety of pulse techniques, slice thicknesses, and interslice gaps as well as one or two signal excitations. Potential intraarticular contrast agents (saline and Gd-DTPA) were tested, and their signal behaviors compared with that of hyaline cartilage. All cartilage defects were occult on T1-weighted and balanced images without Gd-DTPA. The smallest defect identified by using intraarticular saline was 3 mm in diameter and was apparent only on T2-weighted images. Intraarticular Gd-DTPA afforded detection of defects as small as 2 mm, even with short imaging times. Signal-intensity differences between saline and articular cartilage were minimal on T1-weighted images and increased on T2-weighted images; intensity differences were high between Gd-DTPA and articular cartilage on all imaging sequences. These results indicate that intraarticular fluid and appropriate selection of imaging sequences are necessary for delineation of focal defects in articular cartilage. They also show that Gd-DTPA is the optimal contrast agent for this purpose.

Perfluorochemicals as gastrointestinal contrast agents for MR imaging: preliminary studies in rats and humans.

The ability to distinguish bowel from other intraabdominal structures is essential for the accurate diagnosis of intraabdominal disease with MR. Because perfluorochemicals have no protons, they cause no MR signal. Since they are immiscible with water, they create a signal void in bowel independent of bowel contents and thus are suitable as oral contrast agents. Furthermore, they are tasteless and odorless and have no side effects. We evaluated the use of perfluorochemicals by performing MR scans of the abdomen in rats after the oral administration of unemulsified perfluorohexylbromide or perfluoroctylbromide. Since the latter is approved as an investigational drug for oral use in humans, two volunteers were also studied. Both compounds created signal void in the bowel of both rats and human subjects allowing identification of the gastrointestinal tract. The results suggest that these compounds have potential as oral contrast agents for MR imaging.