[Strategies for the use of complementary tests in menisco-ligamentous pathology of the knee]

In patients with menisco-ligamentous pathology of the knee, the paraclinical examinations available to physicians and surgeons are standard radiography, arthrography, arthroscopy and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The use of these methods on whether the lesions are recent or chronic. Standard radiography and arthrography are sufficient to evaluate chronic lesions, arthroscopy and MRI being reserved to cases with complex laxity. For recent lesions standard radiography must systematically be performed. Arthrography is unreliable, being hampered by haemarthrosis and pain. Arthroscopy may be hazardous and can only be used in patients without peripheral lesions of the articular capsule and ligaments. MRI is sometimes useful, notably in cases with unrecognized post-traumatic haemarthrosis and in children as it avoids hospitalization. In this article, the various situations encountered are analyzed and a strategy for the use of paraclinical examinations is offered.