To enhance the efficacy of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in evaluating articular soft-tissue structures, arthrography was performed before imaging 45 fresh cadaveric specimens. Contrast agents used were gadolinium-DTPA, 0.9% saline, diatrizoate, and air. MR imaging was performed with and without intraarticular contrast material, and specimens were subsequently sectioned in the same plane. Gd-DTPA was the most effective agent. Saline and diatrizoate exhibited equivalent signal behavior and necessitated T2-weighted sequences, while air was not useful. Depiction of normal anatomy was enhanced with MR arthrography. After surgical creation of lesions in selected specimens, subtle tears were delineated exclusively with MR arthrography, and major tears were diagnosed more confidently. Intraarticular contrast material may enhance the diagnostic capabilities of MR imaging in the setting of joint disease.