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Patellar tendinitis: MR imaging features, with suggested pathogenesis and proposed classification
R F McLoughlin1, E L Raber, A D Vellet
1Department of Radiological Sciences and Diagnostic Imaging, University of Calgary, Foothills Hospital, Alberta, Canada.
Radiology
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging reveals a spectrum of changes in patellar tendinitis, correlating with injury severity and fibrovascular repair. These MR imaging findings aid in understanding the origin and treatment of patellar tendon damage.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic imaging
- Radiology
- Sports medicine
Background:
- Patellar tendinitis, commonly known as Jumper's knee, is a frequent cause of anterior knee pain.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features of patellar tendinitis.
- To establish a correlation between MR imaging findings and the degree of tendon abnormality.
Main Methods:
- Fifteen patients with clinically diagnosed patellar tendinitis were included.
- Gadolinium-enhanced MR imaging of the knee was performed for all participants.
Main Results:
- MR imaging demonstrated a grading system for patellar abnormality based on enthesial region findings.
- Grades correlated with increasing fibrovascular repair, with distinct features for each grade (1-3).
- Posterior tendon changes, particularly in central and medial thirds, were most evident; chronic medial retinaculum injury was common.
Conclusions:
- Patellar tendinitis exhibits a consistent pattern of changes on MR imaging.
- These imaging characteristics enhance the understanding of injury mechanisms and guide treatment approaches.