N. Raby, Magnetic resonance imaging of suspected scaphoid fractures using a low field dedicated extremity MR system, CLIN RADIOL, 56(4), 2001, pp. 316-320
AIM: To determine whether magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using a dedicate
d extremity system could be utilized for the routine assessment of patients
with a clinically suspected scaphoid fracture, and to determine the most c
ost-effective timing of MRI for these patients.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: MRI of the wrist using a 0.2T extremity MR system wa
s performed in two groups of patients. Fifty-six patients were examined wit
hin 4 days of injury and 53 with persistent symptoms at 10 days to 6 weeks
following injury. A scaphoid series of radiographs was negative in both gro
ups,
RESULTS: The early MR group had seven scaphoid, six radial and four other f
ractures. Management was altered in 89%, The late MR group had 14 scaphoid,
nine radial and three other fractures, Management was altered in 69%, A co
st model showed that overall costs are less with early rather than late sca
nning,
CONCLUSION: MRI of the wrist when scaphoid fracture is suspected can be und
ertaken in all patients with negative radiographs and could be performed in
most departments with an MRI machine. There are significant patient benefi
ts and overall costs would change little from conventional practice. (C) 20
01 The Royal College of Radiologists.