Wrist MR Arthrography: How, Why, When

MR imaging has been used in the evaluation of a wide spectrum of joint disorders. Its multiplanar capabilities and refined tissue contrast allow detailed assessment of osseous and soft tissue pathology. MR imaging of the wrist frequently represents a diagnostic challenge for radiologists because of the complex anatomy of the wrist joint, the small size of its components, and little known pathologic conditions. MR arthrography combines the advantages of conventional MR imaging and arthrography by improving the visualization of small intra-articular abnormalities. MR arthrography of the wrist is a mildly invasive imaging technique, however, and should not be performed indiscriminately. This article reviews the current role of MR arthrography in the evaluation of wrist joint disorders taking into account the relevant aspects of anatomy, techniques, and applications.