High-resolution fast low-angle shot magnetic resonance imaging of the normal hand

Cross-sectional magnetic resonance (MR) images of the normal hand, wrist, and fingers with an inplane resolution of 0.2-0.4 mm and a slice thickness of 1-2 mm were obtained using a 40-cm bore, 2.35 T MRI system equipped with actively shielded 50 mTm-1 gradient coils. A detailed description of the normal anatomy is given. The T1-weighted, multi-slice, fast low-angle shot (FLASH) MR images presented show a substantial improvement in resolution as compared with earlier reports. Typical investigational times of about 15 min offer a fast scan protocol that is suitable for routine clinical applications. The study further demonstrates the potential of dedicated magnets to facilitate and refine diagnostic MR imaging of hand injuries and hand-related diseases. (orig.)