Magnetic resonance imaging of the musculoskeletal system: Part 7. The ankle

Diagnosis of many traumatic or attritional lesions about the ankle may be difficult with only the history, physical examination, and conventional radiographs. When uncertainty is present clinically or when precise depiction of the extent of injury will assist with treatment planning, magnetic resonance imaging may be a useful adjunct to these basic methods of evaluation. In particular, magnetic resonance imaging is useful for the identification and evaluation of tendinitis, tendon dislocations, osteochondral lesions, and occult fractures. Additional clinical settings in which magnetic resonance imaging may be helpful include evaluation of tumors, osteomyelitis, and tarsal coalition.