J Korean Orthop Assoc.  1978 Mar;13(1):37-44. 10.4055/jkoa.1978.13.1.37.

Arthrographic Finding of Meniscus Tear

• Kim YJ
• Maing KY
• Song JS

• KMID: 2460398
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4055/jkoa.1978.13.1.37

Abstract

Double-contrast arthrography of the knee, that is roentgenographic examination of the supporting structures of the knee joint with the aid of the radiopaque dyes, has been utilized infrequently until recent years in our country. A growing appreciation of the advantages of arthrography, increased experience with the technique, and an increasing ability to interprete the arthrogram have led to more frequent use of this diagnostic aid. Double-contrast arthrography of the knee is of particular value in the examination of the patient with an atypical history of in jury and unusual physical findings, or in the individual with an acute injury who cannot tolerate a manipulative physical examination. Its use has led to greater diagnostic acumen prior to operative intervention and in many cases has aided the orthopedic surgeon in determing whether or not surgery indicated and in surgical exploration. And its accuracy of the diagnosis of the meniscus tear has been very high, greater than 90% in many series. The followings are summary of result; 1) Double-contrast arthrography of the knee is a valuable diagnostic procedure. 2) Prolonged observation and procrastination in the treatment of patients with symptomatic knees could be avoided. 3) There were no complications of arthrography and all patients returned to work immediately after the procedure. 4) In this series, 2 cases out of the 6 cases of the torn lateral meniscus were not demonstrated correctly by arthrography. From this result, it is suggested that the interpretation of arthrographic findings is somewhat difficult at present time. In future, further experience and study for arthrography is demanded for more accurate interpretation of the conditions of the structures of the knee joint and also is desired to compare with the arthroscopic findings.

MeSH Terms

Arthrography
Coloring Agents
Diagnosis
Humans
Knee
Knee Joint
Menisci, Tibial
Orthopedics
Physical Examination
Tears*
Coloring Agents