Dynamic MRI of the Finger: Evaluation of Two Different MR Sequences

Introduction: Lesions of the flexor tendon pulley system, which frequently are seen in recreational climbing, are well demonstrated on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, the sport physiologic relevance still remains unclear. Examining the course of the flexor tendon during physiologic flection may help.

Methods and Materials: Two dynamic MR sequences were evaluated in 10 healthy volunteers: (1) T1-weighted three-dimensional (3D) cine sequence (15 acquisitions) with a slice thickness of 1.75 mm and 12 slices per 3D block; and (2) semidynamic T1-weighted sequence (six acquisitions at 20 seconds) with a slice thickness of 5 mm. Each examination was performed in the prone position in a 1.5-T scanner (Aera, Siemens, Erlangen, Germany).

Results: Both sequences may delineate the course of the flexor tendon during flection. The 3D real-time sequence demonstrated a lower signal-to-noise-ratio compared with the semidynamic sequence. The thinner slices of the 3D sequence, however, allowed the analysis of the flexor tendon, even if it deviated out of the plane of examination. In each case the flexor tendon remained along the palmar surface of the midbody of the proximal phalange.

Conclusion: Dynamic MRI of the finger in lesions of the flexor tendon pulley system may demonstrate delineations of the flexor tendon during flection. However, further clinical evaluation is necessary to determine the clinical relevance.