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Imaging of the Pediatric Knee
Jessica R Leschied1, Kara Gaetke Udager2
1Section of Pediatric Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Seminars in Musculoskeletal Radiology
|March 30, 2017
Summary
Young athletes often sustain knee injuries due to unique pediatric anatomical weaknesses. This review covers common pediatric knee injuries, imaging findings, and post-surgical appearances for radiologists.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- The knee joint is frequently injured in young athletes.
- Pediatric patients possess unique anatomical vulnerabilities, including physes and apophyses, influencing injury mechanisms differently than in adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss common knee injury patterns in young athletes.
- To highlight imaging findings of pediatric knee injuries.
- To inform radiologists about pediatric-specific surgical repair techniques and their imaging characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Review of common pediatric knee injury patterns.
- Discussion of imaging modalities and findings.
- Analysis of post-surgical repair imaging appearances.
Main Results:
- Common injuries include patellar and patellar tendon issues, physeal fractures, osteochondral abnormalities, ligament tears, and meniscal injuries.
- Imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosing these conditions.
- Radiologists must recognize specific imaging features of pediatric knee repairs.
Conclusions:
- Understanding unique pediatric knee anatomy is vital for diagnosing injuries in young athletes.
- Accurate interpretation of imaging studies aids in diagnosis and management.
- Familiarity with pediatric-specific surgical repairs enhances radiologists' contributions to patient care.