MR imaging of the elbow.

Of 27 patients who underwent magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the elbow, 11 underwent elbow arthroscopy and/or an open surgical procedure. Surgical findings were compared with those from MR imaging. Five healthy volunteers also underwent MR imaging to demonstrate anatomic relationships. Transchondral fracture (osteochondritis dissecans) was identified in three of the 11 patients and was proved at surgery. Loose bodies were suspected at MR imaging in the three patients but were found in only two. One complete avulsion of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) and four cases of intact, thickened UCLs were identified at MR imaging and surgery. Loose bodies from the olecranon tip were found in three patients at surgery but were seen on MR images in only two. MR imaging depicted olecranal osteophytes in three cases, which were confirmed at surgery. Two complete avulsions of the biceps tendon and one partial triceps tendon tear were identified with MR imaging and proved at surgery. A postoperative soft-tissue infection and a synovial cyst were also seen at MR imaging and surgery. These results suggest that MR imaging is useful in the evaluation of the elbow.