Giuseppe Peritore MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Raffaello Sutera MD, PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Domenico Messana, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Angelo Iovane MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Massimo Midiri MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To review the MRI imaging appearances of intact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft and describe the assessment of impingement and postoperative complications.

Traditional ACL reconstruction is performed with autograft; disadvantages of this technique are donor site morbidity and a long rehabilitation period. Allograft tendons are reported to have excellent clinical results, but these grafts bring the risk of infection. The most common indications for evaluating ACL reconstructions with MR imaging include: 1)failure of ACL reconstruction to stabilize the knee; 2)postoperative re-injury to the knee; 3)postoperative stiffness especially extension loss (flexion contracture); 4)preparation for revision of a failed ACL reconstruction. MRI is a non-invasive method for assessment of these problems, because it allows direct visualization of the graft, as well as the fixation devices, tibial and femoral tunnels or bioabsorbable cross pins. MRI shows if the bone tunnels are proper positioned. At long-term follow-up MRI can detect intrasubstance ACL graft signal changes that represent a pathologic finding indicative of possible graft impingement, degeneration or partial tearing.

http://abstract.rsna.org/uploads/2014/14002842/14002842_c897.pdf

Peritore, G, Sutera, R, Messana, D, Iovane, A, Midiri, M, Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14002842.html