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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2024; 28(03): 293-304
DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1782207
Review Article

Postoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: An Overview and Practical Step-by-step Guide

Tom C. Doorschodt 
1   Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, OLVG, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
,
Frank F. Smithuis
2   Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
,
Gijs T.T. Helmerhorst
3   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Flevoziekenhuis, Almere, The Netherlands
4   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
,
Mario Maas
2   Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
5   Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Rehabilitation and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Abstract

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is a frequently encountered injury among athletes, often requiring surgical intervention to restore knee stability. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after ACL reconstruction is common, especially in the evaluation of clinical complications leading to knee instability, decreased range of motion, or pain. This article provides a detailed overview of normal and abnormal postoperative findings including a practical step-by-step guide for MRI assessment. MRI findings must be correlated with surgical technique, time interval from surgery to imaging, and clinical examination.

Keywords

anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction - postoperative magnetic resonance imaging - complications - step-by-step guide

Supplementary Material



Publication History

Article published online:
20 May 2024

© 2024. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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