Variability of anterolateral ligament on MRI images – lack of survey standardization or anatomical variants?

Abstract

The anterolateral ligament is a rotational stabilizer of the knee joint. It is not always clear what we actually see on MRI in the area of anterolateral ligament (ALL).The aim of the study was to evaluate the ALL variants on MRI images to summarize their common features and differences, and to try to find an explanation for the phenomenon of the ALL variability.200 series of MRI images of knee joints were analyzed. The presence of the ALL, the number of its layers, the relation to the joint capsule, and other anatomical features were assessed.The ALL was visualized on MRI at least partially in 88 % of cases. At least partially two-layer structure was detected in 68 % of all 200 MRI series. The wavy appearance of the certain portions of the anterolateral ligament was observed in some normal knee joints without a history of injuries.Determined that the ALL is a separate anatomical element of the knee joint that has a variable, but in most cases two-layered, anatomical structure and can be detected on MRI in at least 88 % of cases. Axial sections help to identify ALL in complex cases and allow analyzing its anatomy, but adding little in the diagnosis of ALL injury.