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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the method of choice for the preoperative and posttreatment staging of musculoskeletal tumors. In addition, MR imaging offers several advantages when compared with other methods in the evaluation and staging of soft tissue tumors considering high resolution, tissue contrast, and multiplanar capability.

Although the role of computed tomography (CT) as a primary study for the evaluation of musculoskeletal pathology diminished with the advent of clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the recent developments in spiral CT has again increased the interest in these applications [1–4]. This is in great part related to the capabilities of spiral CT to rapidly scan patients with optimization of the delivery of contrast and data acquisition and to create volume data sets which can be used for highly detailed three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions. The impact of 3D imaging is felt especially in orthopedic applications, where clinical decision making is complex and treatment options vary.

In evaluating a soft tissue mass, the physician must always bear in mind the possibility of a soft tissue sarcoma and, to determine precisely the diagnosis, it is imperative to collect all the pertinent data by a careful history and physical examination supplemented by special imaging modalities.