Coronal Short Tau Inversion Recovery Research Articles

Whole-body magnetic resonance neurography in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy.

Whole-body magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) is an imaging modality that shows peripheral nerve signal change in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). We aimed to explore the diagnostic potential of whole-body MRN and its potential as a monitoring tool after immunotherapy in treatment-naïve CIDP patients. Whole-body MRN using coronal 3-dimensional short tau inversion recovery (STIR) sampling perfection with application-optimized contrasts by using different flip angle evolution (SPACE) techniques was performed in patients being investigated for CIDP and in healthy controls. Baseline clinical neuropathy scales and electrophysiologic parameters were collected, and MRN findings were compared before and after CIDP treatment. We found highly concordant symmetrical thickening and increased T2 signal intensities in the brachial/lumbosacral plexus, femoral, or sciatic nerves in five of the eight patients with a final diagnosis of CIDP and none of the healthy controls. There were no treatment-related imaging changes in five patients with CIDP who completed a follow-up study. Diffuse, symmetrical thickening, and increased T2 signal in root, plexus, and peripheral nerves were found in two patients ultimately excluded due to a diagnosis of polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy, skin changes (POEMS) syndrome in addition to signal changes in the muscles, bony lesions, organomegaly, and lymphadenopathy. Whole-body MRN imaging shows promise in detecting abnormalities in proximal nerve segments in patients with CIDP. Future studies evaluating the role of MRN in assessing treatment response should consider follow-up scans after treatment durations of more than 4 months.

Assessment of the Initial Diagnostic Accuracy of a Fragility Fracture of the Sacrum: A Study of 56 Patients.

Retrospective study. To investigate the clinical manifestations of a fragility fracture of the sacrum (FFS) and the factors that may contribute to a misdiagnosis. The number of patients diagnosed with FFS has increased because of extended life expectancy and osteoporosis. Patients with FFS may report nonspecific symptoms, such as back, buttock, groin, and/or leg pain, leading to a misdiagnosis and a delay in definitive diagnosis. Fifty-six patients (13 males and 43 females) with an average age of 80.2±9.2 years admitted to the hospital for FFS between 2006 and 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. The following patient data were collected using medical records: pain regions, a history of trauma, initial diagnoses, and rates of fracture detection using radiography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Forty-one patients presented with low back and/or buttock pain, nine presented with groin pain, and 17 presented with thigh or leg pain. There was no history of trauma in 18 patients (32%). At the initial visit, 27 patients (48%) were diagnosed with sacral or pelvic fragility fractures. In contrast, 29 patients (52%) were initially misdiagnosed with lumbar spine disease (23 patients), hip joint diseases (three patients), and buttock bruises (three patients). Fracture detection rates for FFS were 2% using radiography, 71% using CT, and 93% using MRI. FFS was diagnosed definitively using an MRI with a coronal short tau inversion recovery (STIR) sequence. Some patients with FFS have leg pain with no history of trauma and are initially misdiagnosed as having lumbar spine disease, hip joint disease, or simple bruises. When these clinical symptoms are reported, we recommend considering FFS as one of the differential diagnoses and performing lumbar or pelvic MRIs, particularly coronal STIR images, to rule out FFS.

Fast magnetic resonance imaging for diagnosing pulmonary tuberculosis in children: the sub-10-min unenhanced scan.

In this study, we aimed to report the feasibility and quality of fast (unenhanced < 10-min duration) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the detection of lymphadenopathy in non-sedated children with suspected tuberculosis (TB). This was a prospective study that involved children (< 13years of age) hospitalised at Red Cross Children's Hospital with suspected pulmonary TB who were referred for a fast MRI of the chest. The limited short-duration MRI protocol included coronal short tau inversion recovery (STIR) and axial diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) sequences with additional axial STIR and axial and coronal T2 sequences if the patient was compliant. The scan time was capped at 10min and a study was considered successfully completed when DWI and STIR images were obtained in axial planes. MRI quality was recorded as 'acceptable quality'; 'poor quality, but readable'; and 'non-diagnostic'. Of the 192 fast MRI protocol scans, 166 (86%) were successfully completed within the 10-min allotted scan period. There was no age or sex difference between successful and unsuccessful studies. The mean duration of successful scans was 6.5min (standard deviation = 1.5min, range = 4-10min). Fast (sub-10-min scan) MRI is feasible for diagnosis of lymphadenopathy in non-sedated children in the setting of suspected TB, including those below 6years of age.

Diagnostic performance of deep learning–based reconstruction algorithm in 3D MR neurography

ObjectiveThe study aims to evaluate the diagnostic performance of deep learning–based reconstruction method (DLRecon) in 3D MR neurography for assessment of the brachial and lumbosacral plexus.Materials and methodsThirty-five exams (18 brachial and 17 lumbosacral plexus) of 34 patients undergoing routine clinical MR neurography at 1.5 T were retrospectively included (mean age: 49 ± 12 years, 15 female). Coronal 3D T2-weighted short tau inversion recovery fast spin echo with variable flip angle sequences covering plexial nerves on both sides were obtained as part of the standard protocol. In addition to standard-of-care (SOC) reconstruction, k-space was reconstructed with a 3D DLRecon algorithm.Two blinded readers evaluated images for image quality and diagnostic confidence in assessing nerves, muscles, and pathology using a 4-point scale. Additionally, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratios (CNR) between nerve, muscle, and fat were measured.For comparison of visual scoring result non-parametric paired sample Wilcoxon signed-rank testing and for quantitative analysis paired sample Student’s t-testing was performed.ResultsDLRecon scored significantly higher than SOC in all categories of image quality (p < 0.05) and diagnostic confidence (p < 0.05), including conspicuity of nerve branches and pathology. With regard to artifacts there was no significant difference between the reconstruction methods.Quantitatively, DLRecon achieved significantly higher CNR and SNR than SOC (p < 0.05).ConclusionDLRecon enhanced overall image quality, leading to improved conspicuity of nerve branches and pathology, and allowing for increased diagnostic confidence in evaluation of the brachial and lumbosacral plexus.

The Presence of Hip Joint Effusion on MRI Is Predictive of a Grade 4 Femoral Neck Stress Injury.

One of the most debilitating types of bone stress injuries is those occurring at the femoral neck. This problem occurs in the military population with much higher incidence than in the normal population and is of great concern to military medical providers. Early detection and accurate diagnosis are key in protecting soldiers and recruits from sustaining a potentially career-ending fracture. In a case study, a 16-year-old elite male distance runner presented with hip pain. MRI found hip joint effusion but was unremarkable for marrow edema and a low-signal fracture line. The initial diagnosis was acute arthritis; however, a follow-up radiograph 1 month later, after the patient had been refraining from running, confirmed a significant non-displaced compression-side Grade 4 femoral neck stress injury (FNSI). In light of the case study and our similar clinical experience, we tested the hypothesis that an MRI study positive for an FNSI, combined with the evidence of a hip joint effusion, is indicative of a Grade 4 FNSI, even without visualization of a low-signal intensity fracture line on T1 or short tau inversion recovery images. Recruits in Army Basic Combat Training were included in the investigation if 1) diagnosed with a unilateral FNSI, 2) had an initial positive MRI for an FNSI, 3) had a positive bone scan for uptake in the femoral neck area (to validate the diagnosis), 4) had no other hip/pelvis injuries, and 5) had a follow-up MRI within 60 days. Hip joint effusion was defined as 1) ≥2-mm measurable difference in the thickness of fluid along the length of the involved femoral neck when compared to the contralateral uninvolved femoral neck on the initial MRI; 2) visibly assessed as a prominent collection of fluid distending the posterior hip joint capsule on the initial MRI coronal short tau inversion recovery sequence (called the "flash sign"). A total of 162 recruits met the study inclusion criteria. For the detection of a Grade 4 FNSI on the first MRI, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value of the measured joint effusion criteria were 0.52, 0.94, and 0.89, respectively. or the non-measured flash sign, these values were 0.70, 0.83, and 0.80, respectively. Both the measured hip joint effusion criteria and the non-measured flash sign were predictive of a Grade 4 FNSI and may be useful in clinical evaluation.

Orthopaedic Diagnoses in the Black Pediatric Population.

The Black pediatric population is one that has been historically underserved and continues to have unmet needs. Factors including lack of diversity in orthopaedic studies and in historical standards, such as bone age, may inadvertently lead to inferior care. There are certain conditions in this population for which the practicing orthopaedic surgeon should have a higher degree of suspicion, including slipped capital femoral epiphysis, Blount disease, and postaxial polydactyly. Systemic diseases with higher rates in this population have orthopaedic manifestations, including sickle cell disease, vitamin D deficiency, and obesity. Racial discrepancies in access to prenatal care can have orthopaedic consequences for babies, especially cerebral palsy and myelodysplasia. Racial discrepancy exists in evaluation for nonaccidental trauma. Increased awareness of these issues better prepares practitioners to provide equitable care.

Analysis of whole-body MRI artifacts in a pediatric population with a special emphasis on the effect of hands position

PurposeThe purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the prevalence of artifacts on whole-body (WB) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination in pediatric patients and identify their causes. Materials and methodsA total of 107 pediatric patients who underwent a total of 107 WB-MRI examinations, including short-tau inversion recovery (STIR) and T1-weighted sequences, were included. There were 62 girls and 45 boys with a mean age of 11 ± 3 (SD) years (age range: 2–16 years). WB-MRI examinations were analyzed for the presence of artifacts on STIR and T1-weighted sequences. Artifacts were further assigned to one of eight categories (motion, partial volume, cross-talk, phase sampling, susceptibility, equipment, noise, and “other”) and 19 anatomical sites by a 4-year resident. Prevalence of artifacts were analyzed especially according to hands position during the examination for the upper limbs and patients’ age. Age was expressed as a binary variable using median age (10 years) as the cut-off value. All qualitative variables were compared using chi-square test. ResultsA total of 3436 artifacts were found. The STIR sequences showed more “noise” artifacts (93/1038; 8.96%) and more “cross-talk” (102/1038; 9.83%) artifacts than T1-weighted sequences (12/1038 [1.16%] and 7/1038 [0.67%], respectively) (P < 0.001 for both). T1-weighted sequences showed more “equipment” (84/1038; 8.09%) and “stair-step” (a subset of “other”) (41/1038; 3.95%) artifacts than the STIR sequences (39/1038 [3.76%] and 21/1038 [2.02%], respectively) (P < 0.001 and P = 0.01, respectively). T1-weighted sequences showed fewer artifacts on the wrists when the hands were under the bottom (P = 0.001). T1-weighted sequences showed less “equipment” artifacts when the hands were alongside the body (22/296; 7%) than on the abdomen (48/432; 11%) or under the bottom (14/128; 11%) (P < 0.001). STIR sequences showed more “motion” artifacts when the hands were on the abdomen (54/432; 13%) than alongside the body (30/296; 10%) or under the bottom (15/128; 12%) (P < 0.001). WB-MRI examinations had more “susceptibility” artifacts (38/960; 4%) and more “equipment” artifacts (81/960; 8.4%) in patients older than 10 years than in those under 10 years (23/752 [3.1%] and 42/752 [5.6%]) (P = 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively). ConclusionArtifacts on WB-MRI do not affect coronal STIR and T1-weighted sequences equally, so the use of both sequence types appears useful. Hands position should be considered with respect to both diagnostic benefit and safety.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Standalone T2 Dixon Sequence Compared with Conventional MRI in Sacroiliitis.

Aim The aim of this article was to assess the profile of T2-weighted (T2W) multipoint Dixon sequence and conventional sequences in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of sacroiliac joints for the diagnosis of active and chronic sacroiliitis. Settings and Design Prospective observational study. Materials and Methods Thirty-seven patients with sacroiliitis underwent MRI with conventional coronal oblique short tau inversion recovery, T1W sequences, and T2W multipoint Dixon sequences. T1 fat-saturated postcontrast sequences were added in active cases. Comparisons were made between conventional and T2 Dixon sequences both quantitatively and qualitatively. Statistical Analysis Paired t -test was used to study the difference in contrast–noise ratio (CNR) between two groups. Chi-squared analysis with p -value of ≤ 0.05 was used to test the significant association of different sequences. Results Water only images had highest mean CNR (296.35 ± 208.28) for the detection of bone marrow edema/osteitis. T1W (186.09 ± 96.96) and opposed-phase (OP) images (279.22 ± 188.40) had highest mean CNR for the detection of subchondral sclerosis and periarticular fat deposition, respectively. OP images ( p -value <0.001) followed by fat-only (FO) images ( p -value = 0.001) were superior to T1W sequences in detecting periarticular fat deposition. In-phase (IP) images in detecting subchondral sclerosis and IP and FO images in detecting cortical erosions were comparable to conventional T1W sequences ( p -value < 0.001). Conclusions T2 Dixon sequences are superior or comparable to conventional MR sequences in detection of sacroiliitis, except ankylosis. Hence, Dixon can be used as a single sequence to replace the multiple sequences used in conventional imaging protocol of acute sacroiliac joints due to higher image quality. It can be used as an additional sequence in case of chronic sacroiliitis to increase the confidence and accuracy of diagnosis.

Utility of selected sequence MRI imaging of the axial skeleton in the diagnosis of axial spondyloarthritis

BackgroundWhole body MRI has been used to evaluate inflammatory lesions associated with axial spondyloarthritis (SpA). These sequences are extensive, time consuming and add to the cost of the investigation. We aimed to determine the utility of selected sequence MRI imaging of the axial skeleton including spine, pelvis and sacroiliac (SI) joints to identify features of (SpA). MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on 76 patients diagnosed with SpA that underwent a selective sequence MRI imaging of the axial skeleton. The MRI were reported by two musculoskeletal trained radiologists were reviewed. The MRI sequences included whole spine sequences of sagittal STIR (short tau inversion recovery), T1 weighted and T2 weighted sequences. Coronal STIR and T1 weighted images were studied for SI joints and pelvis. The MRI were assessed based on the guidelines outlined by the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society (ASAS) for features of spondylitis, spondylodiscitis, enthesitis, synovitis, capsulitis, bone marrow edema, fatty marrow replacement, erosions and bony ankylosis. Inflammatory lesions were documented in the spine, sacroiliac, facet, hip and costovertebral joints. ResultsThe mean scan duration was 28 min. SI joint involvement was noted in 74 (97.3%) of patients. The other most prevalent findings were spondylitis in 44 (57.8%) patients, costovertebral joint involvement in 31 (40.7%), facet joint lesions in 32 (42.1%), spondylodiscitis in 21 (27.6%), enthesitis in 13 (17.1%), hip lesions in 16 (21%) and ankylosis in 10 (13.1%). ConclusionsThis selective sequence imaging of the pelvis and spine was able to identify typical lesions of SpA in a shorter time period. Fifty-five percent patients had lesions in the posterior elements including facet joints and costovertbral joints that would be missed on traditional SI joint imaging.

Metal Artefact Reduction Sequences (MARS) in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) after Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA)

BackgroundIn the past, radiographic imaging was of minor relevance in the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infections (PJI). Since metal artefact reduction sequences (MARS) are available, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become a promising diagnostic tool for the evaluation of hip arthroplasty implants. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of MARS-MRI in comparison to established diagnostic tools to distinguish between aseptic failure and PJI.MethodsFrom July 2018 to September 2019, 33 patients classified as having an aseptic joint effusion were recruited into the study. The group included 22 women and 11 men with a mean age of 70.4 ± 13.7 (42–88) years. In the same period, 12 patients were classified as having a PJI. The group consisted of 9 women and 3 men with a mean age of 72.5 ± 10.6 (54–88) years. MARS-MRI was conducted using the optimized parameters at 1.5 T in a coronal and axial STIR (short-tau-inversion recovery), a non-fat-saturated T2 in coronal view and a non-fat-saturated T1 in transverse view in 45 patients with painful hip after total hip arthroplasty (THA). Normally distributed continuous data were shown as mean ± standard deviation (SD) and compared using student's t-test. Non-normally distributed continuous data were shown as mean and compared using the Mann–Whitney U test.ResultsSynovial layering and muscle edema were significant features of periprosthetic joint infection, with sensitivities of 100% and specifities of 63.0—75.0%. The combined specifity and sensitivity levels of synovial layering and muscular edema was 88.0% and 90.0%. Granulomatous synovitis was a significant feature for aseptic failure, with 90.0% sensitivity and 57.0% specifity.ConclusionMARS-MRI is as suitable as standard diagnostic tools to distinguish between aseptic failure and PJI in patients with THA. Further studies with larger patient numbers have to prove whether MARS-MRI could be integral part of PJI diagnostic.

AB0796 Quantitative bone marrow lesion characterization at the sacroiliac joint with T1-mapping

BackgroundConventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses T1-weighted and short-tau inversion recovery (STIR) sequences to characterize bone marrow lesions in axial spondyloarthritis. However, quantification is restricted to the extent of marrow lesions because signal intensities are highly variable within and across patients and scanners. Furthermore, some marrow lesions are less visible in MRI and need further characterization with computed tomography (CT), e.g. sclerosis. Quantitative MRI in form of mapping sequences might help to better characterize bone marrow lesions.ObjectivesTo evaluate the performance of T1-mapping for differentiating different bone marrow lesions at the sacroiliac joints in patients with suspected axial spondyloarthritis.MethodsSixty-two patients (mean age 41±12.5; thirty-two were finally diagnosed with axial spondyloarthritis and 30 with another condition) underwent CT and MRI of the sacroiliac joints. Besides standard oblique coronal T1 and STIR sequences a T1-mapping sequence (Modified Look-Locker Inversion Recovery) was added to the protocol. Bone marrow lesions (maximum 4 lesions per patient, 1 lesion of the same type per joint) were characterized by an expert radiologist into four groups, namely sclerosis (lesion type (LT) 1), osteitis (LT2), fat lesion (LT3) and mixed marrow lesions (LTm). Relaxation times on T1-maps were compared using Kruskal-Wallis test correcting for multiple comparisons and correlated to quantitative measures from conventional MRI sequences and CT.Results119 lesions were selected (LT1: 38, LT2: 27, LT3: 40; LTm: 14). T1-map showed highly significant differences between LT1-3 with the lowest values for sclerosis (1522±227 ms), followed by osteitis (1906±82 ms) and fat lesions (2391±200 ms); p&lt;0.0005. However, mixed lesions showed a broad distribution of values (1869±670), irrespective of their characteristics. T1-map correlated to a high degree with conventional T1-values (r = 0.74) and Hounsfield units in CT (r = -0.69) with p &lt; 0.0001, respectively, but not with STIR (p = 0.8).ConclusionT1-Mapping allows for accurately characterizing lesions at the sacroiliac joint in patients with suspected axial spondyloarthritis and, thus, may combine information from two conventional sequences and CT into one in the future while providing superior capacity for quantification. However, in our study mixed lesions and inhomogeneous bone marrow remained problematic. Thus, further sequence development is needed before its implementation in clinical routine.Figure 1.T1-mapping values of the different lesions, LT1: Sclerosis, LT2: Osteitis, LT3: Fat lesion, LTm: Mixed lesion. Differences are highly significant, which allows T1-mapping to characterize those different lesions in one sequence.Disclosure of InterestsTorsten Diekhoff Speakers bureau: Novartis, Eli Lilly, MSD, Canon MS, Consultant of: Novartis, Dominik Deppe: None declared, Denis Poddubnyy: None declared, Katharina Ziegeler: None declared, Fabian Proft: None declared, Kay-Geert Hermann: None declared, Mikhail Protopopov: None declared, Felix Radny: None declared, Marcus Makowski: None declared

Factors Associated with Occurrence of Atelectasis during Sedation for Imaging in Pediatric Patients: A Retrospective Single Center Cohort Study.

Sedation can induce atelectasis which may cause suboptimal image quality. This study aimed to identify factors associated with the occurrence of atelectasis during sedation for imaging in pediatric patients. Patients < 18 years who had undergone whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) under sedation with propofol or dexmedetomidine were included in this study. The development of atelectasis was visually and quantitatively assessed by coronal short tau inversion recovery images of the thoracic level. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify the independent factors associated with the development of atelectasis. Ninety-one patients were included in the analysis. In the multivariable analysis, administration of supplemental oxygen was the only factor significantly associated with the occurrence of atelectasis (adjusted odds ratio, 4.84; 95% confidence interval, 1.48–15.83; p = 0.009). Univariable analysis showed that the use of dexmedetomidine was associated with a lower incidence of atelectasis; however, this could not be verified in the multivariable analysis. Among the pediatric patients who had undergone imaging under sedation, additional oxygen supplementation was the only independent factor associated with atelectasis occurrence. A prospective clinical trial is required to identify the cause-effect relationship between oxygen administration and occurrence of atelectasis during sedation.

Prevalence of sacroiliitis among patients referred for hip MR arthrography.

To determine the prevalence of sacroiliitis among patients who have been referred for MR arthrography. A retrospective search identified 130 consecutive MR arthrograms of the hip performed on a 1.5T Siemens Avanto at our institution from August 2013 to August 2014. Four studies were excluded due to the absence of a coronal short tau inversion recovery sequence of the pelvis, leaving 126 studies for analysis. A musculoskeletal radiology fellow and three attending musculoskeletal radiologists reviewed the images for the presence of bone marrow edema affecting the sacroiliac joints. Only cases of bone marrow edema meeting the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society definition were considered positive. The two-tailed Fisher's exact test was used to compare the prevalence of positive MRI findings among age and gender groups. GraphPad InStat (GraphPad Software) was used for statistical calculations. Patients less than 40years of age demonstrated a statistically higher prevalence of positive MRI findings of sacroiliitis when compared to patients older than 40 (p = 0.0082). No difference in prevalence was found between genders. Overall prevalence of MRI signal alteration suggestive of sacroiliitis as defined by the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society was 4.8%. Among the six patients with positive findings, two were subsequently diagnosed with spondyloarthritis. Hip pain may be a presenting symptom of spondyloarthritis and attention should be paid to the sacroiliac joints during screening examinations, particularly in patients less than 40years of age.

MRI contributes to accurate and early diagnosis of non-radiographic HLA-B27 negative axial spondyloarthritis

BackgroundNonradiographic axial spondyloarthropathies (nr-axSpA) are diagnosed by the absence of radiographic sacroiliitis and the presence of bone marrow edema (BME) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). According to the classification criteria of the international Assessment of Spondyloarthritis Society (ASAS), structural changes to sacroiliac joints (SIJs) on MRI cannot be used as criteria in the absence of BME. However, less than half the Asian patients with clinically active axSpA show BME. The incidence of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 is low in Asian populations, which makes it more difficult to identify nr-axSpA. We used MRI to evaluate the structural damage to SIJs in patients with nr-axSpA with and without BME with the aim of identifying the best methodology for accurate diagnosis, especially in populations with less common BME and HLA-B27.MethodsOne hundred three patients with inflammatory back pain were included in this prospective study. No patient’s radiograph met the definition of positive modified New York criteria. BME and structural damage to SIJ including sclerosis and erosion were assessed independently on coronal and axial short-tau inversion recovery and T1-weighted spin echo MRI scans by two well-trained musculoskeletal radiologists using the Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada (SPARCC) score. Demographics of patients were collected. Disease characteristics and structural damage were analyzed in patients with and without BME on SIJ MRI. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to assess the diagnostic performance of structural damage.ResultsAll individuals in the cohort had at least one abnormal finding on SIJ MRI, including BME or structural damage; 36 of 103 patients had BME. We identified a significant positive correlation between SPARCC scores and severe erosion assessed by focal joint space widening (fJSW) (p = 0.001) in these 36 patients. Fifty-eight of the 103 enrolled patients fulfilled the ASAS criteria for nr-axSpA in the either absence or presence of BME. Of these 58 patients, 57 and 19 had erosions or fJSW, respectively, and the presence of BME was significantly correlated with fJSW (phi score of 0.319 and p = 0.015). We demonstrated a significant positive correlation between fJSW and either the presence or the severity of BME in patients with nr-axSpA who met the ASAS definition. There was a positive correlation between BME and fJSW across the whole study cohort (phi score of 0.389; p < 0.001). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) for fJSW on SIJ MRI was 0.736, p < 0.001. In both HLA-B27-positive and -negative groups, BME was more common in the presence of fJSW (phi scores of 0.370 and 0.377, p = 0.018 and 0.003, respectively) and SPARCC scores were higher in patients with fJSW (p < 0.001 and p = 0.005). We also identified a positive correlation between fJSW and BME in patients with nr-axSpA and normal serum levels of C-reactive protein (phi score of 0.362 and p = 0.001).ConclusionStructural damage detected on SIJ MRI, sclerosis, erosions and fJSW may be present in patients without detectable inflammation on SIJ MRI. However, fJSW is significantly correlated with the severity of inflammation seen on SIJ MRI, which contributes to the accurate diagnosis of nr-axSpA, and it could be used as an alternative diagnostic test for nr-axSpA in the general population, especially for those who do not carry the HLA-B27 gene, Asian patients without BME, or patients with normal serum inflammatory biomarkers.

Evaluation of the relationship between subacromial space volume and rotator cuff injury by Magnetic Resonance Imaging with SPACE technique

Aim: To investigate the relationship between the degree of tearing in the rotator cuff tendons and the subacromial region volume using the proton-density weighted Sampling Perfection with Application optimized Contrasts using different flip angle Evolution technique and the contribution of this technique to shoulder magnetic resonance imaging. Material and methods: A total of 125 patients who underwent shoulder magnetic resonance imaging for shoulder pain between January 2016 and December 2016 were included in this single-center, retrospective study. Rotator cuff tendon injury grading was performed using coronal plane 2D short tau inversion recovery T2-weighted sequences (grades 1–4). Subacromial region volume was calculated from PD-weighted 3D SPACE sequence images in sagittal oblique plane. The relationship between rotator cuff tears and subacromial region volumes was evaluated using Pearson’s correlation analysis. The measurements were made at different times by two independent radiologists. Results: There was a strong negative correlation between the grade of RC tendon tear and subacromial volume (p<0.05; r: -0.83). Conclusion: Shoulder magnetic resonance imaging with high-contrast resolution can be obtained by the Sampling Perfection with Application optimized Contrasts using different flip angle Evolution technique. The degree of rotator cuff tendon tear, which is a cause of shoulder pain, is associated with the subacromial region volume. Using the Sampling Perfection with Application optimized Contrasts using different flip angle Evolution technique can also easily reveal the cause of the damage.

Accuracy of the Tuning Fork Test for Determination of Presence and Location of Tibial Stress Fractures in a Military Training Population.

Stress fractures or bone stress injuries arise from trauma or overuse, often as a result of rapid increase in training. This rapid increase in training occurs frequently as military recruits begin their entry-level training, as many individuals are not accustomed to the level of activity required during boot camp. Tibial stress fractures are the most common bone stress injuries in the military setting. MRI is the gold standard test for identification of stress fractures, but MRI may not be available in field settings. Although limited evidence has suggested that a vibrating tuning fork may be beneficial in determining the presence of a stress fracture, the tuning fork has become a frequent tool used to detect or diagnose stress fractures. Military personnel with suspected unilateral tibial stress fractures were asked to participate in evaluation of tuning forks as a diagnostic tool, in addition to receiving standard diagnostics and treatment. Points of maximal shin tenderness to palpation and vibration, followed by the application of a tuning fork, were evaluated. Each service member also underwent an abbreviated MRI evaluation with a 1.5T magnet consisting of coronal and sagittal STIR (Short Tau Inversion Recovery) and T1 (weighted longitudinal relaxation time) sequences. The results of tuning fork testing were compared to the MRI findings, considering grade 1 changes on MRI to represent a true stress fracture. A two-by-two table was used to determine the performance of tuning fork testing, relative to MRI findings, applying conventional definitions of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value. Among 63 male active duty members with suspected tibial stress fractures, 39 had MRI-confirmed stress fractures. Tuning fork testing, relative to MRI, demonstrated overall sensitivity of 61.5%, specificity of 25.0%, positive predictive value of 57.1%, and negative predictive value of 28.6%. A sub-analysis restricting to grade 3 and grade 4 MRI findings did not improve the diagnostic performance of tuning forks. The tuning fork is an ineffective tool for diagnosing tibial stress fractures.

Chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis \u2014 clinical and magnetic resonance imaging features

BackgroundChronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO) is a rare autoinflammatory bone disorder. Little information exists on the use of imaging techniques in CNO.Materials and methodsWe retrospectively reviewed clinical and MRI findings in children diagnosed with CNO between 2012 and 2018. Criteria for CNO included unifocal or multifocal inflammatory bone lesions, symptom duration >6 weeks and exclusion of infections and malignancy. All children had an MRI (1.5 tesla) performed at the time of diagnosis; 68 of these examinations were whole-body MRIs including coronal short tau inversion recovery sequences, with additional sequences in equivocal cases.ResultsWe included 75 children (26 boys, or 34.7%), with mean age 10.5 years (range 0–17 years) at diagnosis. Median time from disease onset to diagnosis was 4 months (range 1.5–72.0 months). Fifty-nine of the 75 (78.7%) children presented with pain, with or without swelling or fever, and 17 (22.7%) presented with back pain alone. Inflammatory markers were raised in 46/75 (61.3%) children. Fifty-four of 75 (72%) had a bone biopsy. Whole-body MRI revealed a median number of 6 involved sites (range 1–27). Five children (6.7%) had unifocal disease. The most commonly affected bones were femur in 46 (61.3%) children, tibia in 48 (64.0%), pelvis in 29 (38.7%) and spine in 20 (26.7%). Except for involvement of the fibula and spine, no statistically significant differences were seen according to gender.ConclusionNearly one-fourth of the children presented with isolated back pain, particularly girls. The most common sites of disease were the femur, tibia and pelvic bones. Increased inflammatory markers seem to predict the number of MRI sites involved.

Significance of Lumbar MRI in Diagnosis of Sacral Insufficiency Fracture.

Study Design:Retrospective observational study.Objective:The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnostic algorithm of sacral insufficiency fractures (SIF). The primary objective was to compare the sensitivity in fracture detection and correct fracture classification according to MRI and computed tomography (CT). The secondary objective was to identify differences of additional pathologies found in MRI of the lumbar spine and the pelvis and their rates.Methods:A total of 943 patients (from 2010 to 2017) with fracture of the pelvic ring were screened. All patients without high-energy trauma and radiologic diagnostics consisting of X-ray, CT, and MRI of the pelvis or the lumbar spine including the sacrum were included. Differences in fracture detection and description in the various radiologic procedures were evaluated. Detection rates of additional pathologies in MRI of the pelvis and lumbar spine were recorded.Results:A total of 77 subjects were included. The sensitivities for SIF were 14% in X-ray and 88% in CT, and all fractures were detected in MRI. MRI showed a more complex fracture pattern compared with CT in 65% of the cases. Additional pathologies were seen in MRI of the lumbar spine (51%) and that of the pelvis (18%).Conclusions:We suggest performing MRI of the lumbar spine including the sacrum with coronal STIR (short tau inversion recovery) sequence for elderly patients with suddenly increasing low back pain at an early stage. This procedure might improve fracture detection, classification, and recognition of concomitant pathologies.

Society of skeletal radiology member utilization and performance of whole-body MRI in adults.

To evaluate musculoskeletal (MSK) radiologist whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (WBMRI) practice patterns in an effort to better understand current MSK clinical utilization and the need for standardized coding. A 12-question survey was created in Survey Monkey®. The survey was e-mailed to Society of Skeletal Radiology (SSR) members on September 19, 2018. The survey included questions on SSR member demographics and on their experience with WBMRI. One hundred sixty-four of 1454 (11%) SSR members responded to the survey. A minority (32%; n= 52/164) of respondents reported that their institutions routinely perform WBMRI. The most common indication was multiple myeloma (78%, n= 51/65). The most commonly utilized sequences were coronal short tau inversion recovery (STIR) (79%, n= 52/66) and coronal T1 without fat saturation (73%, n= 48/66). A large proportion of respondents (48%, n= 31/64) did not know the code used for billing WBMRI at their institutions. Of the remaining respondents, 23% (n= 15/64) reported use of the bone marrow MRI code, 16% (n= 10/64) the chest/abdomen/pelvis combination code, and 9% (n= 6/64) the unlisted MRI procedure code. There is variation in who is responsible for the protocol and interpretation of WBMRI, as well as how the exam is performed and how the exam is coded, which raise barriers to broad implementation. Recent WBMRI guidelines for multiple myeloma and prostate cancer can mitigate many of these barriers, but they do not address the coding and reimbursement challenges. Collaborative multi-society development of a new CPT® code for WBMRI may be a worthwhile endeavor.

Correlation between NF1 genotype and imaging phenotype on whole-body MRI: NF1 radiogenomics.

To investigate the genotype-phenotype correlation between neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) germline mutations and imaging features of neurofibromas on whole-body MRI (WBMRI) by using radiomics image analysis techniques. Twenty-nine patients with NF1 who had known germline mutations determined by targeted next-generation sequencing were selected from a previous WBMRI study using coronal short tau inversion recovery sequence. Each tumor was segmented in WBMRI and a set of 59 imaging features was calculated using our in-house volumetric image analysis platform, 3DQI. A radiomics heatmap of 59 imaging features was analyzed to investigate the per-tumor and per-patient associations between the imaging features and mutation domains and mutation types. Linear mixed-effect models and one-way analysis of variance tests were performed to assess the similarity of tumor imaging features within mutation groups, between mutation groups, and between randomly selected groups. A total of 218 neurofibromas (97 discrete neurofibromas and 121 plexiform neurofibromas) were identified in 19 of the 29 patients. The unsupervised hierarchical clustering in heatmap analysis revealed 6 major image feature patterns that were significantly correlated with gene mutation domains and types with strong to very strong associations of genotype-phenotype correlations in both per-tumor and per-patient studies (p < 0.05, Cramer V > 0.5), whereas tumor size and locations showed no correlations with imaging features (p = 0.79 and p = 0.42, respectively). The statistical analyses revealed that the number of significantly different features (SDFs) within mutation groups were significantly lower than those between mutation groups (mutation domains: 10.9 ± 9.5% vs 31.9 ± 23.8% and mutation types: 31.8 ± 30.7% vs 52.6 ± 29.3%). The first and second quartile p values of within-patient groups were more than 2 times higher than those between-patient groups. However, the numbers of SDFs between randomly selected groups were much lower (approximately 5.2%). This preliminary study identified the NF1 radiogenomics linkage between NF1 causative mutations and MRI radiomic features, i.e., the correlation between NF1 genotype and imaging phenotype on WBMRI.