Imaging Chapter 11: Knee

← Diagnostic Imaging class notes

FROM MY PT SCHOOL NOTES · DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING · UNIT 3 · CHAPTER 11

Knee

Review the relevant anatomy and imaging question before deciding what the finding may mean for rehabilitation.

Key imaging concepts

  • AP, lateral and patellofemoral views may answer different questions. Assess joint space, tibial plateau, patellar position, cortical edges and effusion.
  • A lateral plateau fracture can be subtle; high-energy trauma and inability to bear weight require appropriate assessment.
  • MRI may be considered for meniscus, ligament or marrow questions when results will affect care, not merely because pain persists.

PT clinical connection

Apply validated acute trauma criteria appropriately; avoid using knee decision rules for chronic atraumatic symptoms.

High-yield distinction

View-dependent narrowing: Joint-space width depends on projection and loading. Do not compare non-weight-bearing views as if they were identical to weight-bearing films.

Normal AP right-knee radiograph with distal femur, proximal tibia and fibula and tibiofemoral joint spaces.
Normal AP right knee, non-weight-bearing status not established. Mikael Häggström, CC0 1.0. Joint-space comparisons depend on projection and loading. Original source and license.

Course source: 5 Knee.pdf; 5 Cases for knee.pdf. These are educational notes, not image reading certification or a substitute for an official report. Imaging orders and interpretation rights vary with professional scope and state law; image examples must be clinically verified and properly licensed.

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