Value of ultrasonic examination of lesions of the medial collateral ligament of the knee-joint

Aim: The present prospective clinical study investigates the value of ultrasonic examination of injuries of the medial collateral ligament of the knee. Method: The sonographical examination was done in a real-time method with an ultrasound unit Type AI 3200 (Dornier, Neufahm, Germany) and with a linear transducer (frequency 7,5 Mhz). This functional measurement is being performed in neutral position and in valgus stress on both knee joints to verify the opening of the medial joint space. 42 patients who have been suspicious for a lesion of the medial collateral ligament of the knee were compared with 80 healthy persons. Results: The average medial opening of the medial joint space in the patient group using manual dynamic ultrasonic examination was 4.4 mm+/-1.1 mm (2.5-8.0) applying the force manual and 4.0 mm 1.0 mm (1.3 mm-8.0) using the Telos fixation device to apply the stress force. The control group showed an average medial opening of 2.2 mm+/-0.5 (0-0.5) as stress was applied manual and 2.5 mm+/-0.7 mm (0-0.4) with the apparative stress examination using the Telos fixation device. Conclusion: The ultrasonic verification of the stability of the medial collateral ligament complex in the medial longitudinal view using defined bony landmarks is a very reliable method as a diagnostic tool for acute or older lesions of the medial collateral ligament of the knee. Clinical Relevance: The advantages of the ultrasonic examination are the immediate availability, the avoidence of radiation and the visualization of movements with dynamic examinations. In contrast to X-ray examination the ultrasonic investigation can provide useful additional information on soft tissue structures.