Adding MERGE Sequence to Routine MRI Examination of the Knee: Is it Valuable?

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of disability which has major implications in elderly and public health. Early detection is critical for understanding the disease progression which can contribute in development of new treatment strategies to stop or slow its progression. MRI has excellent soft tissue contrast and advanced techniques have improved its ability to evaluate cartilage morphology and macromolecular changes.