Context:Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) affords high-resolution visualization of the
soft tissue structures (menisci, ligaments, cartilage, etc) and bone marrow
of the knee.Evidence Acquisition:Pertinent clinical and research articles in the orthopaedic and radiology
literature over the past 30 years using PubMed.Results:Ligament tears can be accurately assessed with MRI, but distinguishing
partial tears from ruptures of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) can be
challenging. Determining the extent of a partial tear is often extremely
difficult to accurately assess. The status of the posterolateral corner
structures, menisci, and cartilage can be accurately evaluated, although
limitations in the evaluation of certain structures exist. Patellofemoral
joint, marrow, tibiofibular joint, and synovial pathology can supplement
physical examination findings and provide definitive diagnosis.Conclusions:MRI provides an accurate noninvasive assessment of knee pathology.