MR Imaging in Suspected Acute Trauma of Wrist Bones

Abstract

Objective: the purpose of this study was to evaluate the findings of MR imaging compared to plain radiography in acute wrist trauma.

Methods: Radiography and MR imaging (obtained at 1.5 T) of 67 patients (38 female, 29 male, aged 15–80 years) were analysed by three senior radiologists in a blinded random fashion.

Results: One-third (n=13) of the 37 fractures observed on MR images were missed on the radiographs. the McNemar test indicated significant differences in diagnoses between radiography and MR.

Conclusion: We recommend that MR imaging should be considered in the diagnosis of acute wrist trauma when: 1) There is a clear discrepancy between the clinical status and a negative radiography and when splint treatment would increase cost by causing occupational restrictions; and 2) Healing of trauma diagnosed as contusion or distension does not occur within the expected time.