THE USE OF GADOLINIUM IN THE MR EVALUATION OF MUSCULOSKELETAL TUMORS

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging has emerged as the preferred modality for the imaging evaluation of musculoskeletal tumors. Although there i s general agreement on the value of MR in diagnosis and staging, the u se of intravenous contrast in the evaluation of musculoskeletal lesion s remains controversial. The purpose of this review is to highlight th ese controversies, to put them in perspective, and to suggest recommen dations for the use of gadopentetate dimeglumine. The following specif ic areas will be addressed: (a) evaluation of soft-tissue tumors, (b) diagnosis of low-grade chondrosarcoma and the use of contrast material in identification of intraosseous metastases, (c) monitoring response to chemotherapy, (d) evaluation for local recurrence after surgery an d/or radiation therapy, and (e) selection of biopsy site.