[Magnetic resonance tomographic results in bone changes associated with sclerosis].

We have compared the value of MRI with conventional radiography and CT in 40 predominantly sclerotic skeletal lesions. We have found that sclerosis and other changes in the bone structure can be demonstrated by MRI in much the same way as with conventional radiography and CT. Using high resolution surface coils, it is possible to demonstrate small areas of new bone formation such as periosteal new bone or the calcification within the nidus of an osteoid osteoma. MRI is particularly appropriate if it is necessary to show soft tissue changes within an area of sclerosis, which may be responsible for the new bone formation and which may be masked on radiographs and CT by the surrounding sclerosis.