Fast field echo resembling a CT using restricted echo-spacing (FRACTURE): a novel MRI technique with superior bone contrast.

Abstract

Computerized tomography (CT) is the modality of choice for imaging bone; however, it utilizes ionizing radiation and suffers from poor soft-tissue contrast. Unlike CT, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides excellent soft-tissue contrast but is limited in its ability to image bone. The objective of this study is to describe a new technical innovation which provides superior cortical and trabecular bone contrast on MRI. FRACTURE (fast field echo resembling a CT using restricted echo-spacing), a 3D gradient echo pulse sequence with restricted echo-spacing combined with an automated post-processing, is described. Cases demonstrating the application and utility of this technique in diagnostic MRI performed for traumatic, inflammatory, neoplastic, and developmental conditions in pediatric patients are presented. The cortical and trabecular bone contrast generated by FRACTURE yields clinically relevant information for diagnosis and management of a subset of patients in whom it may potentially obviate the need for a preoperative CT scan.