English

Abstract

MRI is an accurate, noninvasive imaging modality for evaluation of knee injuries, and determines the patient management, saving them from unnecessary arthroscopy. Our study focuses on the fundamental biomechanical forces underlying the most common injuries and correlate MRI findings with specific traumatic mechanisms. We conducted a retrospective study on 138 patients having prior history of knee trauma. The studies evaluated cruciate ligament tears, collateral ligament injuries, chondromalacia patella, bone marrow contusions, joint INTRODUCTION : Since the initial application in 1984, Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the knee has undergone significant advances for evaluation of the menisci, ligaments, bone marrow contusions. MR examination, a noninvasive modality, is now routinely used to assess a wide spectrum of internal knee derangements and articular disorders and has virtually replaced conventional arthrography in the evaluation of the menisci and the cruciate ligaments. Biomechanical forces play a very vital role in ascertaining the type of knee injuries. In addition to diagnostic benefits and in the selection of surgical candidates with preoperative planning MR imaging has proved valuable. Further, improved patient-doctor communication and reduction in the cost of MR knee studies has contributed to their greater acceptance by the orthopaedic community. MRI has become the imaging modality of choice for the evaluation of the painful knee following injury. It can detect soft tissue abnormalities (meniscal, cruciate, collateral ligament tears) and microtrabecular fractures that cannot be detected by plain film.