The role of MR imaging in the management of elbow problems.

In the past several years, the role of MR imaging in diagnosing pathologic conditions of the elbow has dramatically increased. Aside from imaging soft-tissue tumors, it can accurately visualize partial and complete tears of tendons and ligaments, as well as displacement of epiphyseal fractures in children. Its role in identifying loose bodies, particularly when they are nonosseous, and areas of osteochondritis dissecans has also increased. The use of MR imaging for diagnosing neuropathies, particularly when electrodiagnostic studies are negative, offers exciting possibilities as additional technical improvements are developed.