Meniscal Abnormalities in Soccer Players: Prevalence and MR Imaging

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: We aimed to know the prevalence of abnormal meniscal signal on MR imaging in asymptomatic soccer players and its radiologic significance. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using T1 and gradient echo T2* weighted sagittal and coronal MR image, 48 knees in twenty-four full time soccer players were evaluated for the meniscal abnormalities, the status of ligament and existance of joint effusion. Meniscal abnormalities were interpretated using grading system of Lotysch. By using Chi-square method, We analyzed the existance of joint effusion could divide the healing state and healed state of the meniscus. RESULTS: The prevalence of Grade 2 and more and Grade 3 were 42% and 39% of asymptomatic knees. In the 24 knees with meniscus tear, nine of the 14 asymptomatic knee showed effusion while eight of the 10 symptomatic knee did. Of 24 knees with meniscal tear, only eleven knees were related to previous history of major knee trauma. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of meniscal abnormalities on MR imaging in asymptomatic soccer players was higher(grade 339%) than we expected. The joint effusion was not helpful to divide the healing state and healed state of the meniscus. So we suggest baseline MR imaging in the athletes who have been using the knee vigorously could give decisive information for the interpretation of subsequent MRI that may be performed when the players wounded.