Magnetic resonance imaging features of fractures using the short tau inversion recovery (STIR) sequence: Correlation with radiographic findings

The MRI characteristics of fractures have been described on the basis of spin echo (SE) images emphasizing T1 and T2 contrast. These previous studies were carried out for injuries in which radiographic proof was often lacking. In comparison with SE images, short tau inversion recovery (STIR) images have been shown to provide superior contrast between normal and abnormal marrow. To determine the MRI characteristics of fracture using STIR pulse sequences, we reviewed 28 patients who had radiographic evidence of fracture and were examined with T1-weighted SE and STIR sequences. The results of this study show that MRI using T1-weighted SE and STIR sequences can consistently demonstrate prominent signal abnormalities at fracture sites including those in which radiographic signs are subtle. (orig./GDG)