MRI and Leg Problems

Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, is a type of imaging that is done for the diagnosis of a variety of conditions. The technology of MRI is based on the creation of magnetic fields, radio waves, and powerful computer software to create accurate images of the human body. Unlike X-rays or computerized tomography scans, MRIs have no radiation, making them safe procedures. MRIs are the ideal test to examine non-bony tissues.

Tumors of the Leg

Tumors may occur in the bones of the legs or in the fat, muscle and other tissue that surrounds bone. Tumors that may occur in the bone include Ewing's sarcoma and osteosarcoma. Ewing's sarcoma can present with pain and swelling in the bone in children. Affected children may often have a fever. Osteosarcoma frequently affects teenage boys an usually occurs in the region of the knee joint. In addition, cancers may occur outside the bone. Such tumors, known as sarcomas, can invade into other tissues and often require extensive surgery. They are more common in older individuals. In order to assess the infiltration of the tumor into other tissues, MRI scans are useful.

Bone Infection

An infection of the bone is termed as osteomyelitis. In children, the long bones of the leg are more commonly affected. Common symptoms of osteomyelitis include pain from the affected leg and fever. The leg may appear swollen and is painful to touch. X-rays, though always taken, may not reveal the bone disease until the disease reaches a late stage. In these cases, MRI of the legs can be taken.

Knee Trauma

The knees are complex joints, and injuries to the knee are common in sports. In particular, the anterior cruciate ligament or the menisci are commonly damaged. X-rays in such conditions are frequently normal and not useful in diagnosis. In comparison, MRIs are very powerful tools to assess the degree of injury and allow visualization of ligaments. This is especially useful when arthroscopic surgery is to be considered for the treatment of knee pain.

Osteochondritis Dissecans

Osteochondritis dissecans is a disease of the bone that can occur in adolescent patients. It is thought to be due to loss of blood supply and death in localized regions of the bone. Small pieces of bone or cartilage may break off and become loose particles that float within the joint space. Symptoms include pain in the knee, joint locking or popping and swelling. The diagnosis of this condition is best made with MRI, which can be used to identify the loose bodies floating inside the joint. The MRI is also useful to determine whether surgery is necessary or if the bone can be allowed to heal on its own.