Sports-related injuries of the wrist: An approach to MRI interpretation

Sports-related injuries to the wrist range from minor sprains to severe soft tissue disruption that can pose a risk to the normal function of the upper extremity. It is important to identify the specific nature of such injuries so as to establish an accurate diagnosis and deliver appropriate treatment. MRI of the wrist has greatly benefited from the use of dedicated surface coils, which allow fine depiction of soft tissue and cartilaginous structures. A review of the normal anatomy, MR interpretation pitfalls, and most common abnormalities of the tendons, ligaments, triangular fibrocartilage complex, and nerves of the wrist are presented.