Evaluation of Knee Joint after Double-Bundle ACL Reconstruction with Three-Dimensional Isotropic MRI

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the knee joint after double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with three-dimensional (3D) isotropic magnetic resonance (MR) image, and to directly compare the ACL graft findings on 3D MR with the clinical results. Materials and Methods: From January 2009 to December 2014, we retrospectively reviewed MRIs of 39 patients who had reconstructed ACL with double bundle technique. The subjects were examined using 3D isotropic proton-density sequence and routine two-dimensional (2D) sequence on 3.0T scanner. The MR images were qualitatively evaluated for the intraarticular curvature, graft tear, bony impingement, intraosseous tunnel cyst, and synovitis of anteromedial and posterolateral bundles (AMB, PLB). In addition anterior tibial translation, PCL angle, PCL ratio were quantitatively measured. KT arthrometric values were reviewed for anterior tibial translation as positive or negative. The second look arthroscopy results including tear and laxity were reviewed. Results: Significant correlations were found between an AMB tear on 3D-isotropic proton density MR images and arthroscopic proven AMB tear or laxity (P < 0.05). Also, a significant correlation was observed between increased PCL ratio on 3D isotropic MRI and the arthroscopic findings such as tear, laxities of grafts (P < 0.05). KT arthrometric results were found to be significantly correlated with AMB tears (P < 0.05) and tibial tunnel cysts (P < 0.05). Conclusion: An AMB tear on 3D-isotropic MRI was correlated with arthroscopic results qualitatively and quantitatively. 3D isotropic MRI findings can aid the evaluation of ACL grafts after double bundle reconstruction.