Magnetic resonance imaging of bone marrow and osteochondral injury.

Posttraumatic occult subcortical fractures represent a heterogeneous group of lesions, with different subgroups associated with a high incidence of osteochondral sequelae. The role of MR imaging must be to determine the significance of the different subgroups of occult fractures in the pathogenesis of posttraumatic osteoarthritis. The ultimate goal is to minimize the eventual effects of impactive forces on the osteochondral complex at the time of detection. Modifications in immediate and rehabilitative management of such patients will ensure maintenance of the best possible chondral integrity.