Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Cartilage in the Athlete: Current Techniques and Spectrum of Disease
Authors: Shindle MK, Foo LF, Kelly BT, Khanna AJ, Domb BG, Farber A, Wanich T, Potter HG
DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.F.00614
Purpose
To review advanced MRI techniques used for evaluating cartilage pathology in athletes, emphasizing detection, characterization, and staging of cartilage injury.
Methods
Comprehensive literature review covering conventional MRI and advanced quantitative imaging modalities such as T2 mapping, delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of cartilage (dGEMRIC), and sodium MRI.
Key Findings
- Conventional MRI is essential for structural cartilage assessment, but may miss early biochemical changes.
- Advanced techniques like dGEMRIC and T2 mapping provide insight into cartilage composition and early degeneration before morphological changes occur.
- These methods aid in early diagnosis, monitoring disease progression, and guiding clinical decisions including return-to-play timing.
Conclusion
Quantitative MRI techniques represent powerful non-invasive tools for early detection and comprehensive assessment of cartilage health in athletic populations.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
Incorporate advanced MRI techniques when evaluating athletes with joint pain to detect early cartilage pathology, allowing timely intervention to prevent progression and inform return-to-play decisions.