Skip to the content
Abs
  • Intro
  • Company
  • Blog
  • Mobile app

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS ONLY

  • Intro
  • Company
  • Blog
  • Mobile app

Search

Blog

Would you like to access to an extensive range of learning and discussion opportunities? SUBSCRIBE TO THE ORTHOFIX ACADEMY™

Categories

  • Blog

MOST READ

  • , Principles of Multiplanar Deformity Analysis and Correction in Long Bone

    2022-02-17Principles of Multiplanar Deformity Analysis and Correction in Long Bone

  • , Calculation of the True Plane of the Deformity

    2022-02-17Calculation of the True Plane of the Deformity

  • , Tips for Timely Diagnosis of Charcot Foot and Ankle

    2022-01-17Tips for Timely Diagnosis of Charcot Foot and Ankle

  • , Acute or Gradual Correction of a Deformity?

    2022-01-17Acute or Gradual Correction of a Deformity?

, Magnetic Resonance for Charcot Foot and Ankle Diagnosis
  • Tags charcot_foot_and_ankle
Magnetic Resonance for Charcot Foot and Ankle Diagnosis
2021-12-21

Charcot Foot and Ankle is a significant problem caused by peripheral neuropathy, with an estimated incidence of 0.3 to 7.5% in the diabetic population. This condition, which is also known as Charcot arthropathy, Charcot joint, or neuropathic arthropathy, affects the soft tissues, joints, and bones in the foot and ankle. If left untreated, it may lead to progressive foot deformity, ulceration, or osteomyelitis. In the most advanced stages, it may be necessary to resort to limb amputation.

A rapid and accurate Charcot Foot diagnosis is important to prevent progressive and destructive deformity of the foot. The diagnosis includes clinical signs and specific Charcot Foot symptoms, but imaging tools also play a crucial role.

This article will focus on the use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to make an early diagnosis of Charcot Foot and Ankle.

Using MRI to Diagnose and Monitor Charcot Arthropathy

The use of MRI is becoming increasingly popular for the diagnosis of Charcot Foot and Ankle, especially in the early stage (Eichenholtz Stage 0), which is marked by inflammation. When applied to the musculoskeletal system, MRI provides excellent soft-tissue contrast resolution and multiplanar capabilities.

In the early, acute phase of Charcot Foot and Ankle, radiographic results may be normal, since the alterations caused by inflammation mainly affect the soft tissues; the bone damage will come later. MRI plays a vital role in the diagnosis to prevent this bone damage from occurring.

Performing an MRI is recommended when there is enough clinical suspicion for Charcot arthropathy. The results can demonstrate periarticular bone marrow edema, adjacent soft tissue edema, joint effusion, and microtrabecular or stress fractures.

The imaging protocol should include both T1 (defining anatomy) and short tau inversion recovery (STIR) sequences. The use of contrast (gadolinium 0.1 mmol/kg intravenously) is also recommended, mainly to improve diagnostic accuracy for the possible presence of osteomyelitis. The main findings with each sequence can be summarized as follows:

  • T1: involved joints appear diffusely swollen, showing decreased signal intensity. There is also a decreased signal intensity in fat planes adjacent to ulcerated skin.
  • T1 + gadolinium: inflammatory areas show enhancement, with central non-enhancing necrotic areas.
  • STIR: in early infection there is increased signal intensity due to marrow edema, while later stages show a loss of demarcation of cortical outline and cortical destruction.

MRI can also be used to exclude the possibility of Charcot Foot and Ankle in a patient at risk, since a negative MRI indicates that acute Charcot joint is unlikely.

Involving the Patient in the Management of Charcot Arthropathy

Making a timely diagnosis in Charcot Foot and Ankle is challenging, especially in the early stage, when radiographic changes are not apparent. In these situations, the use of MRI can reveal subtle alterations in the soft tissues to the observant radiologist, allowing for quick implementation of preventative measures. MRI can also be used to assess whether the treatment is successful.

Nonetheless, the patient has a key role in the context of a Charcot Foot and Ankle. By being informed about the condition and keeping an eye to any alteration in his or her feet, the attentive patient can avoid the devastating complications of neuropathic arthropathy. The first step to start a diagnosis comes from the patient who has a good understanding of Charcot arthropathy and a good connection with the members of the multidisciplinary healthcare team.

To help your patients know more about Charcot Foot and Ankle, the available diagnostic tools, and their own role in the management of the disease, we suggest downloading the Patient Informative Cards “Stand On Your Feet: A Program of Empowerment for Your Diabetic Foot Management.”

, Magnetic Resonance for Charcot Foot and Ankle Diagnosis

References

  •  Mautone M, Naidoo P. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2015 Aug;59(4):395-402.
  • Marmolejo VS et al. Am Fam Physician. 2018 May 1;97(9):594-599.
  • Rogers LC, Bevilacqua NJ. Clin Podiatr Med Surg 2008 Apr;25(2):263-74, vii.
  •  Schoots et al Semin Musculoskelet Radiol. 2010 Sep;14(3):365-76.
> Acute or Gradual Correction of a Deformity?

MORE POSTS

, Tips for Timely Diagnosis of Charcot Foot and Ankle

Tips for Timely Diagnosis of Charcot Foot and Ankle2022-01-17

It is known that around 9 per cent of patients with diabetic neuropathy and foot ulcers develop a Charcot foot and ankle. This pathology often goes unrecognized, particularly during the acute phase, until severe complications occur, such as an abnormal pressure distribution on the plantar fascia with bones weakened enough to fracture, followed by a marked foot and ankle deformation and, in the worst cases, by amputation. Thus, today, one of the most crucial questions is how to timely diagnose this condition.

, Tips for the Prevention of Charcot Foot and Ankle

Tips for the Prevention of Charcot Foot and Ankle2021-12-17

Charcot Foot and Ankle is a severe condition that, if left untreated, may lead to deformity, permanent disability, amputation or ultimately to the patient’s death. People with diabetic neuropathy are at high risk of developing Charcot Foot and Ankle, because of the decreased sensation and diminished ability to feel temperature, pain or trauma.

, Computerized Tomography for Charcot Foot and Ankle Diagnosis

Computerized Tomography for Charcot Foot and Ankle Diagnosis2021-12-14

Charcot Foot and Ankle, also known as Charcot arthropathy or Charcot joint, is a condition caused by peripheral neuropathy, leading to the progressive degeneration and destruction of the soft tissue, joint, and bone. In modern society, the most common cause for this neuropathic neuropathy is diabetes mellitus, with long-term diabetic patients having an increased risk of developing the condition.

, Radionuclide for Charcot Foot and Ankle Diagnosis

Radionuclide for Charcot Foot and Ankle Diagnosis2021-12-09

Early Charcot Foot Diagnosis is essential to a proper management, but this can be challenging. There are some factors that should increase clinical suspicion for acute Charcot arthropathy, namely if the patient presents with:

, Radiography for Charcot Foot and Ankle Diagnosis

Radiography for Charcot Foot and Ankle Diagnosis2021-12-07

Charcot Foot and Ankle, also known as Charcot arthropathy, neuropathic arthropathy or Charcot joint, is a progressive condition that affects the bones, joints and soft tissue of the foot and ankle. It is caused by peripheral neuropathy. Today, diabetes is the most common cause for developing Charcot Foot and Ankle.

, Charcot Foot and Ankle Diagnosis: The Multidisciplinary Approach

Charcot Foot and Ankle Diagnosis: The Multidisciplinary Approach2021-12-02

Patients with Charcot neuroarthropathy, a condition that affects the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot and ankle, greatly benefit from a timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. However, Charcot Foot and Ankle diagnosis can be quite challenging, especially in an early stage, where acute symptoms can be similar to other conditions.

, Charcot Foot and Ankle: Patient Questions and Doctor Answers

Charcot Foot and Ankle: Patient Questions and Doctor Answers2021-11-30

Linked to peripheral neuropathy, Charcot Foot and Ankle is one of the serious foot complications affecting people with diabetes. Foot injuries that go unnoticed due to the reduced pain sensation accumulate, and, over time, there is bone deformation, ulceration, and infection. In a worst-case scenario, amputation may be necessary.

, Charcot Foot and Ankle Causes: Where the Pathology Starts

Charcot Foot and Ankle Causes: Where the Pathology Starts2021-11-25

Charcot Foot and Ankle, also known as Charcot arthropathy, is a progressive, inflammatory condition that affects the bones, joints, and soft tissues in the feet of people with peripheral neuropathy. If left untreated, Charcot of the foot and ankle leads to severe deformity, ulceration, and – worst-case scenario – to limb amputation.

, The Stages of Charcot Foot and Ankle Disease and The Importance of a Quick Diagnosis

The Stages of Charcot Foot and Ankle Disease and The Importance of a Quick Diagnosis2021-11-23

When dealing with Charcot Foot Disease, a swift diagnosis is crucial to improve patient outcomes and avoid complications such as foot deformity, ulceration, and in a worst-case scenario, limb amputation. However, not all physicians are able to recognize the initial signs of a Charcot Foot and Ankle in their diabetic patients.

, Emergency in Diabetic Foot and Ankle

Emergency in Diabetic Foot and Ankle2021-11-16

Diabetic foot is one of the most important sources of morbidity in patients with diabetes, affecting 6.4% of patients worldwide. It is the most common cause of lower extremity amputation.

, Charcot Foot and Ankle: Definition and Classification

Charcot Foot and Ankle: Definition and Classification2021-11-12

Charcot Neuroarthropathy, also called Charcot Foot and Ankle, is a progressive and inflammatory condition that weakens the soft tissues, bones, and joints of the foot and ankle. This complex and challenging type of neuropathic arthropathy is commonly linked to diabetes. If left untreated, it can lead to devastating consequences, such as deformity, ulceration, and infection. In the worst-case scenario, it may result in limb amputation.

, The Surgical Approach to the Charcot Foot and Ankle Treatment

The Surgical Approach to the Charcot Foot and Ankle Treatment2021-05-24

Charcot Foot and Ankle is a complex, challenging and sometimes devastating inflammatory foot disease which causes loss of sensation, weakening of the bones and collapse of the weight bearing joints. Most often due to diabetes and underlying neuropathic arthropathy, it needs a multidisciplinary team approach in order to treat it properly and prevent amputation.

Orthofix

2021 © Orthofix Srl
Via delle Nazioni 9
37012 Bussolengo, Verona - Italy
Phone: +39 045 6719000
Fax: +39 045 6719080
Email: customerservice@orthofix.it

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS ONLY

This website is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for a consultation with a physician or healthcare professional. The information provided herein is a service, should be viewed only as opinion. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources deemed ethical and reliable, but completeness is not guaranteed.

LinkedIn YouTube

CALL US
+39 045 67 19 000

EMAIL US
customerservice@orthofix.it

Categories

ORTHOFIX CORPORATE WEBSITE PRIVACY POLICY

COOKIE POLICY

TERMS OF USE

2013 © Orthofix Srl

Copyright © Orthofix. All rights reserved.

Top ↑ Top ↑

Some materials may not be available in your Country. Please contact your sales representatives for availability.

RESERVED ACCESS

This website is reserved only for Healthcare Professionals and their staff. Therefore, the access to these information is denied to non professional audience.

This website uses third-party cookies to improve your experience. Find out more and set your cookie preferences here.
By continuing to use our site or clicking "I accept" you consent to use our cookies.
I accept