PurposeTo investigate the value of dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for evaluating denervated skeletal muscle in rabbits.Materials and methods24 male rabbits were randomly divided into an irreversible neurotmesis group and a control group. In the experimental group, the sciatic nerves of rabbits were transected for irreversible neurotmesis model. A sham operation was performed in the control group. MRI of rabbit lower legs was performed before nerve surgery and 1 day, 3 days, 5 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 6 weeks, 8 weeks, 10 weeks, and 12 weeks after surgery.ResultsSignal intensity changes were seen in the left gastrocnemius muscle on the T2-weighted images. DCE-MRI derived parameters (Ktrans, Kep, and Vp) were measured in vivo. In the irreversible neurotmesis group, T2-weighted images showed increased signal intensity in the left gastrocnemius muscle. Ktrans, Vp values changes occur as early as 1 day after denervation, and increased gradually until 4 weeks after surgery. There are significant increases in both Ktrans and Vp values compared with those in the control group after surgery (P < 0.05). Kep values show no significant difference between the irreversible neurotmesis group and the control group.ConclusionDCE-MRI hold the promise of an early and sensitive diagnosis of denervated skeletal muscle.