Magnetic resonance imaging of the foot and ankle.

Technical considerations for the magnetic resonance imaging of the foot and ankle are discussed, including the selection of the appropriate surface coil, the importance of stabilizing the anatomic region, and the principles guiding the choice of pulse sequences. The anatomy of the foot and ankle are reviewed, and the normal appearance and important variations of the different structures on magnetic resonance images are discussed. Pathology of the foot and ankle are then discussed. Topics covered include osteochondral and radiographically occult fractures, tears and inflammation of the Achilles and posterior tibial tendons, tears of the lateral collateral ligaments and sinus tarsi syndrome, primary tumors (in particular, those of the foot), synovial diseases such as pigmented villonodular synovitis, congenital abnormalities, and disorders such as tarsal tunnel syndrome and plantar fasciitis.