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Abstract #0897

High-Resolution Interleaved Water-Fat MR Imaging of Finger Joints

Wingchi Edmund Kwok1, Zhigang You1, Gwysuk Seo1, Christopher Ritchlin2, Johnny Monu1

1Department of Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States; 2Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology Division, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States


Insufficient resolution and chemical-shift artifacts in MRI of finger joints can hinder early diagnosis of arthritis. We used an interleaved water-fat (IWF) sequence and a dedicated RF coil to achieve high-resolution finger MRI without chemical-shift artifacts. A normal subject and six subjects with arthritis were studied. The high-resolution images revealed detailed structures of the finger joints. The IWF sequence gave more accurate depiction of subchondral bone thickness, and avoided false bone erosions shown in the regular sequence. It also allowed better visualization of ligaments and tendons. High-resolution IWF imaging should be useful for the diagnosis and treatment evaluation of arthritis.