Patellofemoral Imaging Research Articles

Patellofemoral Imaging and Analysis

Imaging of the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) is essential for evaluating patellofemoral pathology and injury. In addition to a detailed history and physical examination, PFJ imaging should be used to better understand the relationship between osseous and soft tissue structures, further confirm a diagnosis, and to create an individualized treatment plan for each patient. This chapter reviews the relevant radiographic and advanced imaging studies utilized in the work-up and treatment of patients with patellofemoral disorders.

Pure and Mixed Imaging Tests, Precision, and Sex Dependence in Patellofemoral Imaging: Letter to the Editor.

Pure and Mixed Imaging Tests, Precision, and Sex Dependence in Patellofemoral Imaging: Letter to the Editor.

Pure and Mixed Imaging Tests, Precision, and Sex Dependence in Patellofemoral Imaging: Response.

Pure and Mixed Imaging Tests, Precision, and Sex Dependence in Patellofemoral Imaging: Response.

Future Directions in Patellofemoral Imaging and 3D Modeling.

Patellofemoral instability involves complex, three-dimensional pathological anatomy. However, current clinical evaluation and diagnosis relies on attempting to capture the pathology through numerous two-dimensional measurements. This current review focuses on recent advancements in patellofemoral imaging and three-dimensional modeling. Several studies have demonstrated the utility of dynamic imaging modalities. Specifically, radiographic patellar tracking correlates with symptomatic instability, and quadriceps activation and weightbearing alter patellar kinematics. Further advancements include the study of three-dimensional models. Automation of commonly utilized measurements such as tibial tubercle-trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance has the potential to resolve issues with inter-rater reliability and fluctuation with knee flexion or tibial rotation. Future directions include development of robust computational models (e.g., finite element analysis) capable of incorporating patient-specific data for surgical planning purposes. While several studies have utilized novel dynamic imaging and modeling techniques to enhance our understanding of patellofemoral joint mechanics, these methods have yet to find a definitive clinical utility. Further investigation is required to develop practical implementation into clinical workflow.

Patellofemoral Imaging and Analysis

Imaging of the patellofemoral joint (PFJ) is useful to evaluate for injury and to better understand the relationship between osseous and soft tissue structures. Interpretation of PFJ imaging findings should be used in the context of patient's history and physical examination. X-rays and advanced imaging technology can provide information to confirm diagnosis and to help customize individual treatment plans. This chapter reviews relevant imaging studies utilized in the work-up and treatment of patients with patellofemoral disorders.

Patellofemoral imaging.

Imaging of the patella and patellofemoral joint cannot be isolated from imaging of the knee anymore than the function of the patellofemoral joint can be separated from the function of the entire knee. Therefore, the current author will focus on imaging of the patellofemoral joint yet integrate this with the entire knee. Because radiographs and other imaging techniques are adjuncts to the history and physical examination, and specifically an extension of the physical examination, each view or technique must be selected thoughtfully to yield the most useful and accurate information possible. Imaging techniques range from relatively inexpensive to very costly, yet the amount of useful information may not show a positive correlation with the cost. Only by integrating the history, physical examination, and the best imaging techniques can the clinician locate the abnormality, determine its cause, and plan a proper course of treatment. Radiographic imaging of the patellofemoral joint requires attention to detail on the part of the technician and knowledge of these techniques on the part of the clinician who orders and interprets the results. Understanding these concepts will help achieve everyone's goal: high-quality and cost-effective orthopaedic care.

Patellofemoral Imaging

Patellofemoral Imaging