Magnetic resonance imaging of chest wall lesions

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrates surface anatomy, nerves, and soft tissue pathology. Selective placement of the cursor lines in MRI displays specific anatomy. The MR images can then be used as adjunct in teaching surface anatomy to medical students and to other health professionals. Because the normal surface anatomy could be imaged at UCLA's radiology department, it was decided to image soft tissue abnormalities with MR to assist in patient care. Patients imaged were scheduled for special procedures of the chest or staging lymphangiograms. Patients were placed into categories depending on known diagnosis or interesting clinical presentation. The diagnostic categories included Hodgkin's disease, melanoma, carcinomas (eg, lung or breast), lymphedema, sarcomas, dermatological disorders, and neurological disorders. All images were orchestrated by the radiologist. This article discusses both the teaching and clinical impact on patient care.