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Follow-up of collagen meniscus implants by MRI
E Genovese1, M G Angeretti, M Ronga
1Cattedra di Radiologia, Università dell'Insubria, Ospedale di Circolo, Fond. Macchi, Viale Borri 57, I-21100, Varese, Italy. eugegeno@tin.it
La Radiologia Medica
|October 24, 2007
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) effectively monitors collagen meniscus implant (CMI) evolution, showing implants typically normalize over time. This imaging technique is valuable for long-term patient follow-up beyond two years.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Collagen meniscus implants (CMI) are used for irreparable medial meniscal lesions.
- Assessing CMI integration and evolution post-implantation is crucial for patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in monitoring patients treated with CMI.
- To identify specific MRI patterns indicative of CMI evolution and integration.
Main Methods:
- 40 patients with irreparable medial meniscal lesions received CMI and underwent serial MRI follow-up (6 months, 1 year, 2 years).
- MRI sequences included T2*, T1, and FatSat DP/T2-weighted images.
- Implant evolution assessed via direct (morphology, signal intensity) and indirect (chondral lesions, bone marrow edema, synovitis) criteria.
- MR arthrography performed at 24 months for enhanced visualization.
Main Results:
- At 6 months, 35/40 CMIs showed normal shape/size (type 3), with 32/40 exhibiting type 1 signal intensity.
- By 12 months, 33/40 CMIs maintained normal shape/size, with 26/40 showing type 2 signal intensity.
- At 24 months, 9/16 CMIs were type 3, and one implant was fully resorbed; MR arthrography identified additional chondral lesions.
Conclusions:
- MRI is effective for monitoring morphological and structural changes of CMI over time.
- Follow-up can extend beyond 2 years until CMI stabilization and resolution of bone marrow edema.
- MRI findings correlated with implant outcomes, though one poor outcome showed no specific MRI signs.