The Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Sports Injuries: Current Applications and Clinical Importance - A Narrative Review
TL;DR
Advances in quantitative MRI and AI may improve diagnostic accuracy, workflow efficiency, and individualized patient management, although further prospective multicentre studies are needed before routine clinical implementation.
Abstract
Background. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the reference imaging modality for evaluating sports-related musculoskeletal injuries because of its excellent soft tissue contrast and ability to assess ligaments, tendons, muscles, cartilage, and bone marrow without ionizing radiation. Aim. To summarize the clinical applications of MRI in the diagnosis and management of sports-related musculoskeletal injuries and discuss emerging developments in quantitative MRI and artificial intelligence (AI). Material and methods. A narrative review of recent reviews, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and original studies on MRI in sports medicine was performed. Results. Conventional MRI remains essential for diagnosing anterior cruciate ligament tears, meniscal injuries, muscle injuries, Achilles tendon disorders, and bone stress injuries, supporting treatment planning and rehabilitation. Quantitative MRI enables assessment of tissue composition and microstructural changes beyond conventional imaging, while AI shows promise in image acquisition, reconstruction, automated analysis, and clinical decision support. However, further validation and protocol standardization are required. Conclusions. MRI remains central to sports injury evaluation. Advances in quantitative MRI and AI may improve diagnostic accuracy, workflow efficiency, and individualized patient management, although further prospective multicentre studies are needed before routine clinical implementation.