Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Evaluating Traumatic Knee Joints: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Knee pain and injuries are common musculoskeletal problems. They often cause impairment in people of all ages. The knee joint has an anatomy with many
soft tissue structures like ligaments, menisci, cartilage and periarticular components. Because of this clinical examination and X-rays alone are often not enough for a
diagnosis. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has become a sensitive and non-invasive way to evaluate both bone and soft tissue abnormalities.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the utility of MRI in evaluating painful and traumatic knee joints. We also analysed the pattern of MRI-detected pathologies with
respect to age and gender.
Methods: We conducted a -sectional observational study at a diagnostic imaging centre in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan. A total of 70 patients with knee pain or a history of
trauma were examined using a 1.5 Tesla MRI system. We used knee MRI protocols with multiplanar imaging sequences to assess ligamentous injuries, meniscal tears,
cartilage defects, bone marrow abnormalities, joint effusion and associated soft tissue changes.
Results: Most patients were young adults with more males than females especially in the 21–30-year age group. Ligamentous injuries were the common findings with
anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears being the most predominant. Meniscal injuries, especially involving the meniscus were also commonly identified. Additional findings
included bone contusions, fractures, joint effusion and patellofemoral abnormalities. MRI demonstrated sensitivity in detecting both isolated and combined injuries.
MRI is an non-invasive imaging modality that provides detailed visualisation of internal knee structures. This enables accurate diagnosis of traumatic and painful knee
conditions. Its comprehensive diagnostic capability significantly enhances decision-making and may reduce the need for invasive procedures like diagnostic arthroscopy.