Short-Tau Inversion Recovery (STIR)

Short-Tau Inversion Recovery (STIR) is a specialized MRI technique used to improve tissue imaging by suppressing fat signals. It employs a specific radiofrequency pulse sequence that quickly inverts the magnetization of fat, then waits a brief period called the "inversion time" (tau) before capturing the image. This timing ensures fat signals are minimized or nullified, enhancing the visibility of abnormal tissues like inflammation or tumors. STIR is particularly useful in musculoskeletal imaging, as it provides clearer contrast between different tissue types, helping clinicians identify pathology more accurately.