J Korean Radiol Soc.  1994 Nov;31(5):949-954.

The Role and Importance of T1 Weighted Axial Image on the Diagnosis of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear

• Lee YJ
• Kim YS
• Lee JH
• Park JO
• Woo JH
• Ki TS
• Chung JW
• Lee DY

Abstract

PURPOSE
The study is for the evaluation of the role and importance of the T1- weighed axial image on the MR diagnosis of the anterior cruciate ligament(ACL) tear.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We reviewed the axial findings of injured ACL on MR images of arthroscopically confirmed 41 patients. The points of ^CL abnormality on axial image were centered on the substance signal change, thickness change, focal bulge or irregularity of medial border.
RESULTS
ACL complete tears were present in 31 patients and partial tears in 5 patients and, ligamentous atrophy or loss by chronic tear in 5 patients. Completely torn ACL were seen as diffuse swelling with abnormal substance signal(A) in 24 cases, focal bulge or irregularity of medial border(B) in 6 cases, normaIcy in 1 case. 9 cases among type A cases also showed type B features. Partially torn ACL were seen as roedial marginal irregularity in 3 cases, mild and diffuse swelling in 1 case, normaIcy in 1 cases. Atrophied or absent ACL fibers by chronic tears in 5 cases were demonstrated on axial images as abnormally thin fibers or so-called "empty lateral wall". Detection rate for ACL abnormality suggestive of fear on Tl-weighted axial image very high(94%, 39/41 ).
CONCLUSION
Because Tl-weighted axial image serves as another good reference of plane for direct visualization of injured ACL with high abnormality detection rate, it would aid in the diagnosis of ACL tear.

MeSH Terms

Anterior Cruciate Ligament*
Atrophy
Diagnosis*
Humans
Ligaments