Magnetic resonance imaging of the knee

MRI has been in widespread clinical use since 1985 and in this short time has dramatically altered musculoskeletal imaging. The technology continues to become increasingly sophisticated; as both clinicians and radiologists become more familiar with its possibilities, further elucidation of pathologic processes affecting the knee will occur. In addition, advanced computer software has allowed a decrease in imaging time, which will allow a decrease in cost of this once-expensive technique. At this time, in many centers, MRI has essentially replaced arthrography for evaluation of disorders of the knee. The advantages of MRI include its inherent contrast sensitivity that allows visualization of a wide variety of tissues, multiplanar capabilities, lack of ionizing radiation, noninvasiveness, rapidity of imaging, and acceptability to patients.