Extensor mechanism of the knee: MR imaging of tendon injuries

The authors describe the normal MR imaging appearance of the extensor tendons of the knee and the lesions that may affect these structures. MR imaging was performed in patients presenting with a variety of injuries of the extensor mechanism of the knee. MR imaging is the method of choice to evaluate tendon injuries, due to its high anatomic resolution. The knowledge of the normal anatomy and the recognition of the spectrum of the injuries that involve these structures are important for an early diagnosis and appropriate management of these patients. (author)