Today, the diagnosis of bone marrow edema (BME) can no longer be classified as a "benign, self-limiting condition." Rather, the BME syndrome is considered a warning sign for the potential progression into prolonged, painful conditions (e.g., CRPS) or even osteonecrosis, which may ultimately require joint replacement surgery. A clinical and radiological classification of local BME using MRI therefore holds particular prognostic significance.Whereas in the past, drilling into the edematous area was considered the "treatment of choice," today there are effective medications, biophysical procedures, and combination therapies available that can lead to the resolution of the edema and the underlying condition.The four authors of the book Bone Marrow Edema have placed great emphasis on a multidisciplinary perspective in addressing the clinical specialties involved in the diagnosis and treatment of BME. Relevant disciplines such as internal medicine, hematology and oncology, osteology, orthopedics, traumatology and sports medicine, as well as radiology and pharmacology, are expertly covered.
