Review article Indirect MR arthrography: techniques and applications

Indirect MR arthrography is a relatively new MR technique improving articular and periarti- cular contrast. It is achieved by injection of paramag- netic MR contrast media intravenously instead of in- tra-articular injection as in direct MR arthrography. After the injection exercising the joint results in con- siderable signal intensity increase within the joint cavity. Fat saturated MR sequences then yield arthro- graphic images. The method is less invasive than di- rect MR arthrography and first results showed com- parable sensitivities and specificities for rotator cuff and glenoid labrum pathology. In this article the tech- nique, established and potential future indications, drawbacks and limitations of the method are re- viewed.