PRIMARY TUMORS OF THE MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM

The excellent soft-tissue contrast and multiplanar imaging capabilitie s of MR imaging have led to its emergence as the most significant adva nce in the imaging of musculoskeletal tumors. MR imaging is the modali ty of choice for local staging, evaluating response to preoperative ch emotherapy, and long-term follow-up in bone tumors. MR imaging is the most effective modality for both primary staging of soft-tissue malign ancy and detecting recurrences. This article reviews the role of conve ntional spin echo techniques versus newer techniques, and then discuss es the indications in the diagnosis, staging, evaluation of preoperati ve chemotherapy, and detection of recurrences in bone and soft-tissue tumors.