NMR imaging of forearms in healthy volunteers and patients with giant-cell tumor of bone.

Serial proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) images of distal upper extremities were obtained in four healthy volunteers and four patients with giant cell tumor of the distal radius. The steady-state-free-precession (SSFP) data collection technique and an 8-cm bore superconducting magnet (1.44 tesla) were used. All images demonstrated high spatial resolution and excellent soft-tissue contrast. In patients with giant cell tumor, the NMR images revealed bone marrow replacement by tumor, cortical bone thinning, and cortical bone destruction. The extent of tumor involvement was clearly delineated by the NMR images and corresponded to radiographic and surgical findings. NMR signal intensity was lower in tumors, suggesting altered relaxation times. These findings demonstrate that proton NMR imaging can provide high-resolution images of extremities and detect tumors by changes in both anatomic structure and relaxation times.