DETECTION OF ANKLE EFFUSIONS - COMPARISON STUDY IN CADAVERS USING RADIOGRAPHY, SONOGRAPHY, AND MR-IMAGING

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to compare radiography, sonog raphy, and MR imaging in revealing ankle effusions in cadaveric specim ens. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Known quantities of saline solution were i nstilled in increments into the ankle joints of three cadaveric specim ens. Imaging was completed after each injection with the ankle in dors iflexion, plantar flexion. and a neutral position. Imaging included ra diography, sonography, and MR imaging, Three observers who were aware of possible joint fluid evaluated the images by consensus and determin ed the presence or absence of joint effusion. RESULTS. MR imaging reve aled 1 mi of fluid within the anterior recess of the ankle in a neutra l position and in plantar flexion and within the posterior recess in d orsiflexion. Sonography revealed 2 mi of fluid within the anterior rec ess in a neutral position and in planter flexion. Radiography revealed 5 mi of fluid within the anterior recess in a neutral position. CONCL USION. MR imaging, sonography, and lateral radiography, in order of de creasing sensitivity, revealed ankle effusion. The power to reveal wit h each technique is influenced by the precise position of the ankle.