Bone tumor imaging, then and now: review article.

BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal tumor imaging is a focused subspecialty of musculoskeletal radiology. The goals of imaging and techniques employed are continually evolving and often slightly different from those used in other musculoskeletal diseases. As these techniques change, it is occasionally useful to review what is new.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: The question addressed in this manuscript is what are the most interesting/relevant changes in each modality of musculoskeletal tumor imaging over the past 38 years, the length of time the newly emeritus chair of the Radiology and Imaging Department of Hospital for Special Surgery has been at the hospital.

METHODS: This review is primarily expert opinion based in examining techniques used at the institutions of the authors, with support from current literature.

RESULTS: The techniques of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are new to the imaging armamentarium, and ultrasound and nuclear medicine techniques have advanced considerably with technology. Although radiographs have also evolved, the changes are less apparent, except in how they are currently processed, viewed, and stored.

CONCLUSIONS: Radiographic evaluation is still critical to evaluating bone tumors. Newer techniques also play an important role in diagnosing and treating these neoplasms.