Accuracy of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Diagnosis of Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Meniscus Tear: An Observational Study

Abstract

Introduction: Magnetic resonance imaging is used for the diagnosis of anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus tears but its value in the diagnosis of these pathologies is limited. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic value of magnetic resonance imaging in diagnosing anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus tears. Methods: This was an observational cross-section study conducted at a tertiary-level hospital in Nepal. The patients operated on for anterior cruciate ligament and/or meniscus tear were considered for the study. The accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging was calculated by comparing its findings with those in arthroscopy. Results: The total number of cases were 134. The sensitivity and specificity were as follows: medial meniscus 88.81%, 95.10%; lateral meniscus 57.12%, 95.14%; anterior cruciate ligament 96.12%, 75%. The sensitivity and specificity of the injuries for 3 Tesla vs 1.5 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging were as follows: medial meniscus 89.20%, 97.84% vs 87.52%, 87.52%; lateral meniscus 65.25%, 100% vs 30%, 90.91%; anterior cruciate ligament 96.12%, 75% vs 96.12, 75%. Conclusions: The sensitivity of magnetic resonance imaging in diagnosing anterior cruciate ligament injury was higher while specificity was higher for lateral meniscus injury. The study also showed that 3 Tesla was better than 1.5 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging in diagnosing meniscus injury.

Keywords

• accuracy
• anterior cruciate ligament
• magnetic resonance imaging
• meniscus
• tear