An Insight Into Either Ultrasound ( Us ) Or Magnetic...

Introduction The aim of this literature review is to gain an insight into either Ultrasound (US) or Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the more suitable imaging modality into diagnosing and assessing a tear within the knee Menisci. Both within trauma and non-trauma adult patients. This section of the review will explain the topic and reasoning into why it was done. The process of its relevance into radiography in practise will also be outlined. This will provide background into positive aspects it could bring. The project targets and hypothesis will be demonstrated within this section. Background into the Menisus of the knee Within anatomy the Meniscus is a piece of cartilage located within the joints of the wrist, acromioclavicular,†¦show more content†¦Blood supply and age factors â€Å"At the time of birth, nearly the whole meniscus is vascularised† (Institute of anatomy 1995, Vol. 66, No. 4, Pages 308-312). The menisci of the knee gains its blood supply from blood vessels entering from the joint capsule accompanied by loose connective tissue. Within the second year of life this is reduced to a avascular region located within the inner fringe of the joint capsule. At the age of twelve the blood vessels are reduced again, being confined to the lateral third. (Institute of anatomy 1995, Vol. 66, No. 4, Pages 308-312). Finally after the age of fifty, only the lateral quarter of the meniscal base is vascularized (Institute of anatomy 1995, Vol. 66, No. 4, Pages 308-312). This creates problems in older patients with meniscus tear injuries, making it vital for having the best imaging modality in place to gain an early diagnosis which would lead to a faster treatment. Diagnostic Imaging role The severity of a tear with the knee Menisci can easily be identified through the use of diagnostic imaging. Modalities used are commonly; conventional radiography, ultrasound (US), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) and arthroscopy. Ultrasound and MRI are the most appropriate imaging modalities for meniscus tears, this is due to their high sensitivity or image quality and statistics. Ultrasound Ultrasound uses an oscillating sound pressure