The value of computed tomography scanning in chondromalacia patellae

Sixty seven patients with pain in the knee were studied. A compound tomography (CT) score indicating chondromalacia was devised, based on the results of CT after arthrography. This score takes account of the regularity, the congruity, and the imbibition of contrast material. Thus the patients could be divided into four groups: those who definitely have chondromalacia (++), probably (+), probably not (+/-), and definitely not (-). These results were compared with the clinical diagnosis based on clinical signs, arthroscopy, or operation. Eighteen patients had clinically proved chondromalacia, CT scored 14++, 3+ and 1+/-. Twenty nine patients had no chondromalacia, CT scored 19-, 8+/-, and 2+. Twenty patients had an uncertain clinical diagnosis. Arthrography was less accurate in detecting chondromalacia.