Three-Dimensional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Musculoskeletal System: Clinical Applications and Opportunities to Improve Imaging Speed and Resolution.

Although conventional 2-dimensional magnetic resonance (MR) sequences have traditionally comprised the foundational imaging strategy for visualization of musculoskeletal anatomy and pathology, the emergence of isotropic volumetric 3-dimensional sequences offers to advance musculoskeletal evaluation with comparatively similar image quality and diagnostic performance, shorter acquisition times, and the added advantages of improved spatial resolution and multiplanar reformation capability. The purpose of this review article is to summarize the available 3-dimensional MR sequences and their role in the management of patients with musculoskeletal disorders, including sports imaging, rheumatologic conditions, peripheral nerve imaging, bone and soft tissue tumor imaging, and whole-body MR imaging.