Multiplanar reconstruction in MR imaging of the knee. Comparison with standard sagittal and coronal images.
OBJECTIVE
To compare standard MR sagittal and coronal imaging of the knee with the MR technique of finer sagittal imaging and subsequent reconstruction in any plane.


METHODS
Forty-seven patients took part in the study. Two radiologists each made two independent interpretations in every case, based on images of: a) 4-mm sagittal and coronal slices; and b) 1.2-mm sagittal slices with subsequent reconstruction.


RESULTS
We found no significant difference in diagnostic efficacy between the two MR techniques. The reconstruction in any desired plane involved a potential reduction of 10 min in examination time but an increase of approximately 20 min in postprocessing time.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of multiplanar reconstruction offered no additional diagnostic value and no saving of time.
Wieslander
S B
SB
Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital at Herlev, Denmark.
Rappeport
E D
ED
Lausten
G S
GS
Thomsen
H S
HS
D000328:Adult; D016118:Anterior Cruciate Ligament / Q000473:pathology; D000070598:Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D007718:Knee Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000473:pathology*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008592:Menisci, Tibial / Q000473:pathology; D008875:Middle Aged; D015588:Observer Variation; D000070600:Tibial Meniscus Injuries