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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2005; 09(1): 17-33
DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-867102
Copyright © 2005 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001 USA.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Knee Instability

Aurea V. R. Mohana-Borges1 , Donald Resnick1 , Christine B. Chung1
  • 1Department of Radiology, Veterans Administration Medical Center, San Diego, California
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Publication History

Publication Date:
05 April 2005 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Patellar retinaculum and cruciate and collateral ligaments are major passive stabilizers of the knee joint. Injuries to these ligaments may alter the overall articular motion and lead to instability. Experienced as a sense of the knee “giving way,” instability is a predisposing factor for recurring injuries and osteoarthritis. This section presents a practical imaging approach to knee instability based on a major injury to a specific ligament, with routine radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging findings discussed in detail. Common patterns of multiple ligamentous injuries are noted in appropriate subsections.

KEYWORDS

Knee - ligaments - instability - MR imaging

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Christine B ChungM.D. 

Department of Radiology, Veterans Administration Medical Center

3350 La Jolla Village Dr., San Diego, CA 92161

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