Comparing MRI Techniques for Knee Lesions
Author Information
Author(s): Hayashi Daichi, Guermazi Ali, Kwoh C Kent, Hannon Michael J, Moore Carolyn, Jakicic John M, Green Stephanie M, Roemer Frank W
Primary Institution: Boston University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
The study aims to compare the effectiveness of two MRI sequences in assessing subchondral bone marrow edema-like lesions and subchondral cysts in the knee.
Conclusion
The intermediate-weighted fat-suppressed sequence is better at depicting subchondral bone marrow edema-like lesions, while the DESS sequence is more effective for subchondral cysts.
Supporting Evidence
- The IW fs sequence detected 93 lesions (46.5%) that were not seen on the DESS sequence.
- The IW fs sequence showed larger sizes of subchondral BMLs in 93% of cases compared to DESS.
- DESS demonstrated larger subchondral cysts in 36.4% of cases compared to IW fs.
Takeaway
This study looked at two types of MRI scans to see which one shows knee problems better. One scan is better for seeing certain types of swelling, while the other is better for seeing cysts.
Methodology
201 subjects aged 35-65 with frequent knee pain underwent 3T MRI using both IW fs and DESS sequences, with assessments made according to the WORMS system.
Limitations
The study lacks a definitive reference standard for the true size of subchondral BMLs and only involves a cross-sectional analysis.
Participant Demographics
Mean age was 52.3 years, with slightly more men (53.7%) than women, and participants were generally overweight (mean BMI 29.1).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.0001
Statistical Significance
p < 0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website