Magnetic resonance imaging of the musculoskeletal system.

MRI is a complementary technique to CT in the examination of the spine, the hip, and musculoskeletal tumors. In some cases, it provides diagnostic information not available with any other modality, including CT. MRI has the potential to be very useful in the assessment of various marrow-based disorders and may someday obviate the need for contrast-aided studies of ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.