Imaging of the Postoperative Knee

Abstract

As imaging techniques develop rapidly, it has become essential to differentiate which techniques are suitable for evaluation of postoperative results. Depending on the surgical procedure, standard radiography, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography can be employed for imaging of the postoperative knee. For accurate assessment of the postoperative status knowledge of the utilized surgical methods and the expected imaging appearances of the structures that have been reconstructed, resected or replaced is necessary. Both radiologists and orthopaedic surgeons must be familiar with the possibilities of each imaging method and its indications resp. contraindications. As a single technique is not always sufficient to provide all the information, all imaging methods should be considered complementary. This article will give an overview on different imaging techniques, their indications and their problems in postoperative assessment of surgical results around the knee joint.