Diagnostic Accuracy of Ultrasound in the Evaluation of Collateral Ligaments and Meniscal Injuries of Knee in Comparison with Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Abstract

Background and Objective Though Magnetic resonance imaging MRI is the currant modality of choice in the imaging of knee ultrasound has a very significant role in the proper evaluation of knee. Musculoskeletal Ultrasound MSUS machines with high-frequency 12 - 15 MHz linear array transducers are used to evaluate superficial soft tissue structures such as muscle tendon ligament and bursa since they provide excellent image resolution. The ultrasound has higher spatial resolution than MR imaging and allow a better evaluation of the superficial structures. The capability of dynamic imaging and real-time comparison with the contralateral knee are added advantages. This study assessed the competence of ultrasound to detect ligament and meniscal injuries of the knee joint in comparison with MRI.Method Total of 110 patients were included. All the patients were evaluated by ultrasonography USG and MRI. The proportion of ligaments and meniscal injuries sensitivity specificity positive predictive value PPV negative predictive value NPV and accuracy of USG were calculated in comparison with MRI.Results In case of medial meniscus MM the sensitivity specificity PPV NPV and accuracy of USG were 83 96.5 86 95 and 93.6 respectively. In case of lateral meniscus LM the values were 77 97 77 97 and 94.5 respectively. In case of MCL the values were 100 99 50 100 and 99 respectively. In case of lateral collateral ligament LCL the values were 0 99 0 100 and 99 respectively.Conclusion The knee ligaments and meniscal injuries are more common in males than females and in young adults than old people. USG showed reasonably good sensitivity specificity NPV PPV and accuracy in detecting meniscal and medial collateral ligaments injury.