ROLE OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING IN DETECTING KNEE INJURIES IN BASKETBALL PLAYERS

Abstract

The article covers matters related to traumatic injuries of the knee in basketball players, emphasizing on diagnostic imaging as a non-invasive test that allows evaluation of the player’s condition. Precise and prompt diagnosis of the trauma can help in reduced treatment period, which in turn decreases the time the player is absent from training and competition. The aim of our study is to present the potential of magnetic resonance (MR) as a reliable method for diagnosing knee injury in basketball players. Methods: Patients with anamnesis of a knee contusion after basketball game were examined on a 3 Tesla (3T) MR machine. The examinations were carried out using standard protocol – applying sequences T1, T2, fat suppression (STIR) and proton density (PD) techniques. The images were processed and analyzed on a Syngo workstation. The most commonly affected structure was the anterior cruciate ligament and the menisci. MR is a reliable diagnostic tool that successfully allows the detection of knee contusions. MR could also help in evaluating the athlete’s condition in preseason. According to specialists the time frame to perform an MR after an incident varies from 2 weeks to 6 – 8 weeks, given that the patient does not have pain and highly limited movements.