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DOI: 10.1055/a-2594-7451
Review

MRI Diagnostics of the Fingers: Current Developments and Clinical Relevance

Article in several languages: English | deutsch
Thomas Bayer
1   Department of Radiology, University Hospitals Erlangen Department of Radiology, Erlangen, Germany (Ringgold ID: RIN197668)
2   Institute of Neuroradiology and Radiology, Klinikum Fürth, Fürth, Germany
,
Christoph Lutter
3   Department of Orthopedics, University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
,
Rolf Janka
1   Department of Radiology, University Hospitals Erlangen Department of Radiology, Erlangen, Germany (Ringgold ID: RIN197668)
,
Michael Uder
1   Department of Radiology, University Hospitals Erlangen Department of Radiology, Erlangen, Germany (Ringgold ID: RIN197668)
,
Frank Roemer
1   Department of Radiology, University Hospitals Erlangen Department of Radiology, Erlangen, Germany (Ringgold ID: RIN197668)
4   Department of Radiology, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, United States (Ringgold ID: RIN1846)
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Abstract

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an excellent method for visualizing the complex anatomical structures of the fingers. The high diagnostic standard is based on numerous recent technical developments to improve soft tissue differentiation and detail recognition, and includes time-resolved functional imaging

Method

This review highlights the current status of MRI in finger diagnostics. The content of this narrative review is based on a literature search in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases using the search terms “finger MRI” and “finger imaging”.

Conclusion

Due to numerous technical optimizations and the increasing clinical availability of MRI, this examination has become indispensable in routine use for the further clarification of traumatic and orthopedic clinical pictures. MRI is also playing an increasingly important role in rheumatic and inflammatory issues, as well as tumors, whereby the particularly high potential for early detection and the detailed soft tissue imaging are especially advantageous.

Key Points

  • MRI enables precise differential diagnosis of all clinical pictures of the fingers and is useful in the clarification of traumatic, orthopedic, rheumatic, inflammatory, and neoplastic issues.

  • Multi-channel hand coils, scanners with high magnetic field strengths, and the use of contrast agents have led to an evaluation with resolutions in the submillimeter range in some cases.

  • High-resolution MRI, including the possibility of functional examination, makes it easier to determine adequate therapy and avoid subsequent damage while meeting high standards.

Citation Format

  • Bayer T, Lutter C, Janka R et al. MRI Diagnostics of the Fingers: Current Developments and Clinical Relevance. Rofo 2025; DOI 10.1055/a-2594-7451

Keywords

MRI - finger - trauma - tumor - inflammation


Publication History

Received: 14 March 2025

Accepted after revision: 10 April 2025

Article published online:
26 May 2025

© 2025. Thieme. All rights reserved.

Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Oswald-Hesse-Straße 50, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany

 

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