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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2006; 10(4): 249-257
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-971996
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001 USA.

Bone Marrow Edema: Patterns and Clinical Implications

Alan O'Hare1 , 2 , Conor Shortt1 , Noel Napier1 , Stephen J. Eustace1 , 2 , 3
  • 1Department of Radiology, Cappagh National Orthopaedic Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
  • 2Division of Radiology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
  • 3Department of Radiology, University College, Dublin, Ireland
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Publication History

Publication Date:
27 March 2007 (online)

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ABSTRACT

This article outlines the causes of bone marrow edema and classifies them by mechanism into congestive, vasogenic, traumatic, and tumorigenic forms. In particular, the article focuses on traumatic edema, emphasizing the differing patterns on the basis of mechanism of injury, impaction, distraction, and shear-type injuries. Finally the article reviews the impact of understanding mechanisms in image interpretation and in patient management.

KEYWORDS

Bone marrow edema - STIR - congestive - traumatic - tumorigenic - vasogenic

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Stephen J EustaceM.D. F.F.R.(RCSI) 

Department of Radiology, Cappagh National Orthopaedic Hospital

Finglas, Dublin 11, Ireland