Abstract
Dynamic T1-weighted FLASH MR imaging, obtained just after i.v. gadopentetate dimeglumine injection, and pre- and postcontrast T1-weighted spin-echo (T1-SE) MR imaging were performed to compare their information value with respect to inflammatory activity in immunoinflammatory gonarthritis. We examined 16 clinically active (CAG), 7 clinically inactive (CIG) and 4 healthy knees. The synovium of a preselected slice was outlined. Its area and relative signal intensity increase after gadopentetate dimeglumine on T1-SE and FLASH (at each time t) were calculated. The CAG knees showed a mean signal intensity increase on early dynamic FLASH images higher by far than the CIG knees, while no significant difference was found on spin-echo images obtained 5 to 15 min after contrast injection. The early signal enhancement probably reflects the perfusion and capillary permeability of the synovium. The area of synovium could differentiate between healthy and arthritic knees. Gadolinium-enhanced dynamic FLASH imaging may provide clinically useful information about the actual inflammatory activity of arthritic joints.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
