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MR findings in athletes with pubalgia
S L Albers1, C E Spritzer, W E Garrett
1Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
Skeletal Radiology
|June 16, 2001
Summary
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) reveals common abnormalities in athletes with pubalgia, affecting the pubic symphysis, abdominal, and groin muscles. These findings are crucial for surgical planning in treating this complex condition.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Radiology
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Pubalgia is a complex clinical syndrome in athletes, often presenting with multifactorial causes.
- Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment and return to play.
Purpose of the Study:
- To delineate the characteristic Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) findings in athletes diagnosed with pubalgia.
- To correlate imaging findings with surgical confirmations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of pelvic MRI scans from 32 athletes with pubalgia (30 male, 2 female).
- Utilized T1-weighted, T2-weighted (SE and FSE), and STIR sequences in axial and coronal planes on a 1.5-T system.
- Focused review on pubic symphysis, abdominal wall, and pelvic musculature, including groin muscles.
Main Results:
- MRI revealed abnormalities in 30 surgically confirmed cases.
- Commonly affected areas included the abdominal wall (27/30), pubic symphysis (21/30), and adductor muscle group (18/30).
- Rectus abdominis (21/30) and pectineus (6/30) muscles also showed abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Pubalgia is a complex condition with frequent multifactorial origins.
- MRI findings provide valuable insights that can significantly influence and alter surgical approaches for pubalgia treatment.