Repositori URV

Identifier: TDX:606

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX606

Authors:
Escala Arnau, Joan Salvador

Abstract:
TESI DOCTORAL (DR J.S. ESCALA ARNAU).MRI has become the non invasive method of choice for the evaluation of internal derangements of the knee and has been advocated as a useful test in the evaluation of objective patellar instability (OPI).The purpose of our study was to evaluate and compare the diagnostic utility of multiple quantitative parameters as measured on knee MR examinatios of patients suffering OPI. We chose to evaluate several of the primary predisposing factors, namely trochlear dysplasia, patella alta and increased lateral patellar tilt. Special emphasis was put on the evaluation of the patellar nose.We performed a retrospective evaluation in a large and uniform group of 59 knees with clinically proven OPI and in a control group of 71 knees. Both groups were matched by age and sex.All OPI knees had presented recurrent patellar dislocation, which was documented by reduction in the emergency department or by a convincing history associated with suggestive clinical and radiographical signs.In all control knees, anterior cruciate ligament tear, patellofemoral disabilities, fractures, prior surgery or anterior knee pain were sistematically ruled out.In the OPI group, we used axial and sagittal T-1 weighted sequences. In the control group, we used axial T1-weighted or gradient-recalled-echo T2-weighted sequences and sagittal fast dual-echo MR sequences.The knee MR examinations belonging to both groups of patients were randomly mixed for imaging review. Various categories of quantitative parameters were evaluated using rulers, scales, squads and a hand-held goniometer. Where necessary, the contour of the articular cartilage was systematically used as the reference plane. As suggested by Staubli, this may be crucial because the chondral surface of the trochlear gr