10/08/2020
MRI Not Equal Symptoms
In this study nearly all knees of asymptomatic adults showed abnormalities in at least one knee structure on MRI.
Meniscal tears, cartilage and bone marrow lesions of the patellofemoral joint were the most common pathological findings.
This study questions clinical decision making regarding arthroscopy and its efficacy in reducing symptoms and treatment. The high rate of asymptomatic adults with knee joint abnormalities on MRI may indicate why arthroscopy and other surgical interventions for these do not result in better outcomes than surgery.
For example, there is no evidence to suggest that meniscectomy benefits patients presenting with meniscal tear symptoms more than surgery does. Moreover, meniscectomy and other surgical interventions could lead to further complications or deterioration of the articular cartilage and increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
Despite the increasing use of high resolution MRI, in prac, diagnosis should be primarily based on patients medical history and physical examination by an experienced clinician, instead of solely focusing on the MRI results.
The images may assist in correlating clinical signs and symptoms but should not replace clinical evaluation.
📚:thestrengthpts