Ultrasound of the knee joints, bilateral

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Bilateral knee joint ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging examination that uses ultrasound to assess the articular and periarticular structures of both knees.

The examination allows assessment of the soft tissues, sonographically accessible tendons and ligaments, bursae, articular cartilage in areas accessible to visualization, the synovial membrane, and the joint space. It can also detect the presence of intra-articular fluid, inflammation, cysts, and other soft tissue abnormalities.

Examination of both knees allows comparison of the joint structures and identification of possible differences between the two joints.

Indications

• pain in one or both knees;
• swelling or edema in the knee region;
• limited joint mobility;
• stiffness or discomfort during movement;
• knee injuries;
• suspected accumulation of intra-articular fluid;
• suspected bursitis, tendinitis, or other inflammatory processes;
• abnormalities of tendons and ligaments accessible to ultrasound examination;
• suspected popliteal cyst (Baker's cyst);
• monitoring of previously diagnosed joint conditions;
• comparative assessment of both knee joints.

Procedure

The examination is performed with the patient positioned according to the structures that need to be assessed. The physician applies a special gel to the skin around the knees and examines the joints using an ultrasound transducer.

During the examination, the knee may be assessed in different positions and during specific movements to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of the articular and periarticular structures.

Both knee joints are examined consecutively, allowing comparison of the structures on both sides.

Limitations

Ultrasound provides detailed assessment of many superficial structures of the knee joint; however, it cannot fully visualize all intra-articular structures and bony components.

In certain cases, additional investigations such as X-ray, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be required for a comprehensive assessment of the menisci, deep ligaments, cartilage, or bone structures, as recommended by the physician.

Contraindications

Knee joint ultrasound has no known absolute contraindications. The examination is non-invasive and does not involve ionizing radiation.

In the presence of extensive skin lesions, wounds, or infections in the area to be examined, the examination technique may need to be adapted or the procedure postponed, depending on the clinical situation.

Advantages

• non-invasive and painless method;
• no exposure to ionizing radiation;
• allows examination of both knees during the same procedure;
• enables comparison of the structures of both joints;
• provides real-time imaging;
• allows assessment of articular and periarticular structures accessible to ultrasound;
• can detect intra-articular fluid and inflammatory changes;
• allows dynamic assessment of certain structures during movement;
• can be repeated to monitor the progression of a condition.

Sources:

https://radiopaedia.org/articles/ultrasound-of-the-knee
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3553228/
https://londonsono.com/knee-ultrasound-scan-one-limb/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9137311/
https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Ultrasound-findings-of-patients-with-knee-osteoarthritis_tbl1_50228549

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience pain or an exacerbation of a condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic tests and treatment. Only a qualified specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment plan. To ensure the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. Different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests, which could lead to inconsistencies in the results.