Which characteristic of this imaging modality is NOT correct?

Which characteristic of this imaging modality is NOT correct?

• A. No radiation dose
• B. Fast imaging time (~5-15 minutes)
• C. Excellent bone visualization
• D. Moderate to expensive cost

Answer: (C)

Cortical bone does not show up well on this imaging modality. The main strength of MRI is soft tissue contrast, so cortical bone typically appears as a dark signal void and details of bone architecture are not well delineated. That makes the statement about excellent bone visualization the inaccurate one. The modality, in contrast, has no ionizing radiation, and many MRI protocols can be completed in a time frame of a few minutes to a quarter-hour, while the cost is generally moderate to high due to equipment and expertise required. CT, not MRI, is preferred when detailed bone anatomy is needed.

Cortical bone does not show up well on this imaging modality. The main strength of MRI is soft tissue contrast, so cortical bone typically appears as a dark signal void and details of bone architecture are not well delineated. That makes the statement about excellent bone visualization the inaccurate one. The modality, in contrast, has no ionizing radiation, and many MRI protocols can be completed in a time frame of a few minutes to a quarter-hour, while the cost is generally moderate to high due to equipment and expertise required. CT, not MRI, is preferred when detailed bone anatomy is needed.