Magnetic resonance imaging of the fingers: Anatomical assessment and evaluation of traumatic pathology.

MRI is useful in the evaluation of traumatic soft tissue injuries of the fingers due to its high spatial and contrast resolution, as well as its ability to provide multiplanar imaging that adapts the field of view to the region under study. Advanced MRI allows precise identification of the small anatomical structures of the fingers and reliable injury diagnoses. This article reviews the anatomy of the fingers, highlighting the unique features of the thumb. It discusses the most common traumatic soft tissue pathologies, and correlates them with clinical findings. This article is intended to aid the planning of optimal MRI evaluation of traumatic pathologies, describe the imaging features of these injuries through representative cases, and discuss the implications that MRI findings may have on patient management and treatment.