Role of MRI in the diagnosis of anterior cruciate ligament tears of the knee

Objective:To evaluate the role of MRI in diagnosing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears.Methods:MR imaging of 12 cases of clinically suspected anterior cruciate ligament tears was correlate with surgical findings.Results:The ACL tears were adequately showed on sagittal images in 9 and on coronal images in 7 of 12 cases.Eight of the 12 cases with ACL tears had irregular high signal intensity within the substance of the ACL on T 2WI. Four of the 12 cases revealed irregular wavy contour of the anterior margin of the ACL.One had dis continuity of the substance of the ACL on sagittal image . Six of the 12 cases with ACL tears had a fracture of the posterior lateral tibial plateau.MRI correctly diagnosed eleven of the 12 cases.Conclusion:MRI is important in diagnosing ACL tears.A fracture of the posterior lateral tibial plateau of the knee is highly suggestive of acute ACL tears.