Three-dimensional MR imaging of maniscal motion in the knee

This paper reports three-dimensional reconstruction of high-resolution MR images performed to assess normal meniscal kinematics in the intact, unloaded cadaveric knee. Five knees were imaged with a 1.5-T magnet using a short repetition time, short echo times sequence enhanced by surface coils. Scans were obtained at 10 degrees increments from extension to flexion. Three-dimensional meniscal images were reconstructed by computer and viewed dynamically to assess movement. The mean meniscal excursion was found to be 5.1 mm medially and 11.2 laterally. Three-dimensional MR image reconstruction with cine is an excellent method for the evaluation of meniscal motion in the cadaveric knee