Magnetic resonance arthrography of the canine stifle joint: technique and applications in eleven military dogs.

The stifle joints of eleven military working dogs were evaluated using conventional magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and MR arthrography. A protocol optimizing MR imaging of the canine stifle joint is discussed, as well as potential uses for administration of intra-articular gadolinium. The technique for performing MR arthrography is described, and post-contrast image findings are reviewed. MR arthrography was performed by using an intra-articular injection of diluted gadolinium. Consistently good quality images were obtained, and no complications were clinically detected following MR arthrography. Cranial cruciate ligament abnormalities were seen in six dogs, meniscal abnormalities were visualized in nine menisci, and synovitis and medial ligament strain were seen in eight dogs. Surgical and post-mortem confirmation of these findings is discussed in seven dogs. Although MR arthrography adds an invasive procedure to conventional MR imaging, it can provide useful information on pathologic changes in the canine stifle joint.