MRI-Based Retrospective Analysis of Knee Joint Injuries: Patterns and Prevalence

Abstract

Background: Knee injuries are common musculoskeletal problems affecting stability, weight-bearing, and movement. Trauma, sports activities, overuse, and degenerative changes contribute to internal derangements, and accurate diagnosis is essential to prevent chronic pain, joint instability, and osteoarthritis. MRI is the preferred imaging modality due to its ability to visualize both soft tissue and bony structures in multiple planes. Objective: To retrospectively analyze MRI findings in patients with knee injuries and determine the frequency, pattern, and associated abnormalities. Methods: A ‘ retrospective observational study was conducted on 120 patients who underwent MRI for knee injuries at Sonoscan Pvt.Ltd, Malda, West Bengal, India. Data on age, gender, clinical history, side of injury, and MRI findings were collected using a structured data sheet. Standard MRI protocols including T1, T2, Proton Density, and fat-suppressed sequences in sagittal, coronal, and axial planes were used. Descriptive statistics were applied to assess the frequency and distribution of injuries. Results: Most patients were males (65%), and the 21–30 years age group was most affected (30%). Right knee injuries were slightly more frequent (56.7%). ACL tears (38.3%) and medial meniscus tears (33.3%) were the most common injuries. Joint effusion (43.3%) and bone marrow edema (28.3%) were frequently associated findings, while cartilage injuries were observed in 16.7% of cases. Conclusion: MRI provides a detailed evaluation of knee injuries, aiding diagnosis and management. ACL and medial meniscus injuries are predominant in young adults, and MRI detection of associated abnormalities helps guide treatment and improve patient outcomes.