Experimental infections of the musculoskeletal system: MR imaging versus radionuclide scintigraphy evaluation

The proximal tibias or adjacent soft tissues of 38 New Zealand white rabbits were injected with Staphylococcus aureus or a sterile solution. MR images, three-phase bone scans, and gallium-enhanced scans were obtained 7 or 14 days later; each image or scan was interpreted by two experienced radiologists. MR imaging and radionuclide scintigraphy both accurately depicted osteomyelitis (MR imaging accuracy = 89%, radionuclide scintigraphy accuracy = 84%; P = NS). In addition, MR imaging depicted soft-tissue abscesses requiring drainage with 92% accuracy