Role of M.R.I. in Evaluation of Traumatic Knee Joint Injuries

Abstract

Objective: To describe the MRI characteristics of traumatic lesions and to identify common knee joint lesions.
Study Design: Cross sectional study
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Radiology Department of Kuwait Teaching Hospital between 1 July 2023 - 30st June 2024.
Methods: The study was performed on 160 consecutively registered patients. It is a cross sectional descriptive study. Patients 16 yrs. and above with traumatic knee injury were included in this study. Non cooperative patients, those who have undergone prior surgical procedures, periarticular tumors or infections and contraindications to MRI were excluded from the study.
Results: We analyzed MRI scans of total of 160 patients with knee joint injuries. The age of patient was grouped in clusters of 10 years. Majority of the patients (35%) were found in 26-35 years’ age group. Out of total 160 patients; majority of them were male comprising 126 patients and 34 were female. They underwent MR imaging within 6 months of their injury. Right knee was involved in 55% and left knee in 45% cases. Among cruciate ligaments partial tear of ACL was most commonly seen. In one-third of our cases bone contusions were present.
Conclusion: Based on the current study's data, it can be said that MRI is the most effective method for evaluating internal knee joint derangement after injury. The most common findings were anterior cruciate ligament tears, medial meniscal tears, and joint effusions.