O3095 MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING IS USEFUL IN DIAGNOSIS OF PAEDIATRIC KNEE PATHOLOGY – MYTH OR A FACT

Abstract

Aims: To evaluate whether in children with knee pathology there is any correlation between clinical diagnosis, magnetic resonance imaging and arthroscopy. Methods: Between 1993 and 2001 children age 3–16 years old, who presented in the orthopaedic clinics of our institution with knee pathology were included in this study. All of them underwent MRI investigation. Their history, physical examination and clinical diagnosis were ascertained from their case notes. Some of these children underwent arthroscopic surgery of the knee and þndings were also recorded. Clinical data, MRI þndings and arthroscopic þndings were computerised and analysed. Results were analysed and compared in the following 3 groups: a) clinical data versus MRI þndings, b) clinical data versus arthroscopic þndings and c) MRI report versus arthroscopic þndings. Comparisons were rated in one of three categories: total agreement, partial agreement or total disagreement. Partial agreement was deþned as the partial correlation of þndings. Results: 130 children (131 knees, one bilateral) were included in this study. The mean age was 8.5 years (range 3–16). Conclusion: In this study 1/3 of the knee MRI was normal and there was only 26% of total agreement between the clinical and MRI þndings. Further more in 50% of cases that underwent arthroscopy, there was no correlation of arthroscopic and MRI þndings.This study supports the view that knee MRI investigation in children may not provide a reliable diagnosis and guidance in children with knee pathology.