Comparison of conventional MRI, MR arthrography, MR arthrography with traction, MR arthrography with pressure in the evaluation of articular distension

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the performance of conventional MRI, standard MR arthrography, MR arthrography with traction and MR arthrography with pressure in articular distension in patients with ACL injury. Design and patients: The consecutive patients (7 female, 21 male) with acute ACL injured conventional MRI, MR arthrography, MR arthrography with traction and MR arthrography with pressure were evaluated. Results: The amount of distension in the joint was evaluated in the posterior, femorotibial and anterior com- partments. Medially, between the meniscus posterior horn and the tibial corner, MRA with pressure was found to be more effective in showing this distance than MRA with traction (p < 0,05). Laterally, in measurements made between the posterior horn of the meniscus and the capsule, MRA with traction and MRA with pressure are more effective showing this distance than conventional MRI and standard MRA (p < 0,05). In measurements made medially, between the posterior horn of the meniscus and the capsule, MRA with traction is more effective in showing this distance than standard MRA (p < 0,05). In all three different MRA modalities, the lateral femo- rotibial joint distance was found to be statistically higher than conventional MRI (p < 0,05). Medial femorotibial joint distance was found to be statistically higher in MRA with pressure than in conventional MRI and standard MRA (p < 0,05). The medial infrapatellar distance was found to be statistically higher in MRA with pressure than standard MRA and MRA with traction (p < 0,05). The lateral infrapatellar distance is higher in MRA with pressure than in MRA with traction, and this height is statistically significant (p < 0,05). Conclusion: Traction and pressure applications added to MRA will increase the effectiveness of the method by increasing the distension in the knee joint. Although both seem to be effective in creating distension in posterior compartment and femorotibial joint distance, MRA with pressure is more effective especially in anterior compartment.