Comparison of results of arthroscopy and magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of intraarticular pathologies of the knee

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of magnetic resonance imaging as a diagnostic procedure for intraarticular pathologies of the knee. We investigated the results of magnetic resonance imaging compared to arthroscopy for intraarticular pathologies of the knee. In Ondokuz Mayis University Faculty of Medicine Dept. Of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, from March 1996-June 1999, we did arthroscopy at 100 patients that they had a magnetic resonance imaging examination elsewhere before arthroscopy. In tine arthroscopy, we found 46 lesions of the medial meniscus, 24 lateral meniscus, 46 anterior cruciate ligament and 40 chondromalasia. The magnetic resonance imaging examination had an accuracy of 69.0% medial meniscus (sensitivity 100.0%, specifity 42.6%), 85.0% for the lateral meniscus (sensitivity 100.0%, specifity 80.3%), 94.0% for the anterior cruciate ligament (sensitivity 86.0%, specifity 100.0%), 61.0% for the joint cartilage (sensitivity 2.5%, specifity 60.0%). A detailed history, careful clinical examination and direct knee radiographs can diagnose the majority of knee problems and a magnetic resonance imaging evaluated by an experienced radiologist can protect patients from unnecessary arthroscopic or open surgery interventions.