Current practice of knee MR imaging in Japan (radiologist's view)

The knee is probably the most frequent site for MR imaging of the extremities in most institutions, and it has significantly changed the practice of knee surgery, including arthroscopy. The following commentary by a radiologist discusses the growing number of MR units, which facilitates increases in the number of MR examinations of the knee in Japan. This easy access to MRI includes elderly patients with degenerative knee disorders, as well as younger patients with traumatic injuries. With prolonged life expectancy, indication for MRI of the knee will be expanded, despite its high cost. Precise evaluation of articular cartilage in the early stages of regeneration is still a challenge; proper use of MR imaging for this disorder must be considered.