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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2025; 29(05): 791-806
DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1800852
DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1800852
Review Article
Technical Errors and Artifacts Causing Mistakes in Musculoskeletal Imaging
Authors
Abstract
Imaging, an essential diagnostic tool found ubiquitously in modern clinical practice, is particularly useful for evaluating musculoskeletal (MSK) pathology. However, technical errors in imaging and imaging artifacts are pitfalls that frequently diminish image quality and may lead to misinterpretation of radiologic studies by radiologists and clinicians. This review describes the causes and imaging appearances of the more common and important MSK imaging technical errors and artifacts in radiography, ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and MSK intervention that may potentially lead to erroneous interpretation. Where applicable, strategies to mitigate the impact of these pitfalls are also discussed.
Keywords
computed tomography artifacts - interventional radiology pitfalls - magnetic resonance imaging artifacts - musculoskeletal imaging pitfalls - ultrasound artifactsPublication History
Article published online:
07 October 2025
© 2025. Thieme. All rights reserved.
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