MRI Assessment for Anterior Knee Pain in the Adult Population

Abstract

nterior knee pain is one of the most common musculo-skeletal complaints. There are multiple causes of anterior knee pain; correct identification of pain is essential when determining the method of treatment. Various causes of anterior knee pain and dysfunction of the patellofemoral joint may be diagnosed, including soft tissue disorders such as plica syndrome, patellar tendinitis, bursitis, overuse syndromes, and many other conditions, Patellar malalignment including patellar dislocation or subluxation, and patellofemoral arthrosis. The knee joint is a complex structure, this joint is subjected to numerous pathologies and due to the recent increase in various sport activities, there has been a parallel increase in sport-induced internal derangements of the knee. The main strength of knee MRI is the assessment of articular and Peri-articular diseases. The specific structures best suited for MRI assessment include tendons, muscles and ligaments, as well as peri-articular soft tissue masses. Joint effusions, synovial thickening, bursal fluid collections, intra-articular loose bodies, ganglion cysts and articular surface erosions. Also as regard the cruciate and meniscal lesions, which when clinically suspected, MRI is preferably advised. The term “anterior knee pain” is often used interchangeably with “PFPS” or “runner’s knee.” PFPS can be