**Author details**

loskeletal Ultrasound has proved to be one of the most valuable imaging methods in the

Before it gains universal acceptance in evaluation of the musculoskeletal system, however,

MR imaging is essentially the standard of care for the evaluation of the musculoskeletal system

The primary advantage is relative lack of operator dependence. This is achieved through the

Other advantages include multiplanar capabilities, panoramic views, ability to evaluate deep

Another advantage is the ability of MR imaging to evaluate globally and thoroughly an anatomic area including deep soft tissues, bone marrow, and joint cartilage with high sensi‐

Advanced technology has resulted in improved image resolution and shortened imaging times. Images may be acquired at all times of the day at various physical sites. Interpretation of images can also be accomplished promptly with data transfer to computer workstations.

Controversy exists when Ultrasound and MR imaging are compared. Unlike the research results using MR imaging, those pertaining to Ultrasound are usually more variable. Although this can be partially explained by the inherent operator dependence of this imaging method.

Additionally, there are relatively few blinded research studies that directly compare Ultra‐ sound with MR imaging. Many sonographic studies are limited to small subject groups without a gold standard. Additional research is needed to determine Ultrasound's true

Clinical studies, however, are demonstrating the potential of Ultrasound forseveral indications

It is obvious that MR imaging will remain the most common advanced imaging method of the musculoskeletal system until research demonstrates that Ultrasound can produce similar results. It is clear, however, that there are several areas where musculoskeletal Ultrasound has been proved effective. Each of these points has allowed MR imaging to become widely

As the images of the cases presented have shown, we too believe that MRI is to be considered the Gold Standard in muscular injuries, but we still consider Ultrasound the first choice

Further developments will extend applications of Ultrasound and MRI within muscularskeletal diagnostics, granting many more advantages in real-time performance, high tissue

effectiveness in evaluating the musculoskeletal system relative to MR imaging.

accepted for evaluating the musculoskeletal system in sports medicine. [14]

Ultrasound must be able to produce results similar to those of MR imaging.

There exist several advantages of MR imaging over Ultrasound.

muscle planes and to detect lesions missed by Ultrasound.

and interest in this imaging method continues to grow.

because of its specific characteristics.

resolution and cost-benefit ratio.

diagnosis of anomalies in sports medicine.

use of standardized MR imaging protocols.

at most centres worldwide.

132 Muscle Injuries in Sport Medicine

tivity.

Massimo Manara1 , Danilo Manari2 and Giulio Pasta3

1 Association of Parma, Italy

2 FC Parma, Italy

3 Pasta Associate Clinic for Imaging Diagnostics, Italy
