Magnetic resonance imaging of the musculoskeletal system.

During the last few years, the interest and experience in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the musculoskeletal system has increased rapidly. Modern equipment with good spatial resolution and multislice, multiecho technique provides detailed information on the joints, soft tissue and spine within a reasonable examination time, both with superconductive and resistive systems. Today, MRI is an established technique for examination of musculoskeletal tumors and aseptic bone necrosis and it has proven to be of great value for evaluation of diseases of the spine and spinal canal. The definite place of MRI within musculoskeletal diagnostic imaging is not yet settled, but its potential is great, and it will have an important role in the future.