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Knee ultrasound
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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Today, the diagnostic capabilities of knee joint ultrasound are being revised. Despite the fact that ultrasound techniques cannot completely replace such highly informative techniques as MRI and standard X-ray examination in examining the knee joint, the ultrasound method has its own certain advantages. One of the most important advantages of the ultrasound method is the ability to evaluate the soft tissues of the knee joint, including ligaments, tendons, connective tissue elements, fatty tissue, vascular and nerve bundles. In addition, the simplicity of ultrasound, its availability and low cost make the choice in the primary diagnosis of traumatic injuries of the soft tissues of the knee joint in favor of ultrasound. However, the capabilities of the ultrasound method in assessing such intra-articular elements as menisci, cruciate ligaments and articular cartilage are limited, mainly due to an insufficient acoustic window, so the results of an ultrasound examination in case of suspected pathological changes must be confirmed by MRI and X-ray. Ultrasound examination of knee joints is performed using high-frequency sensors with base frequencies of 5-7.5 MHz. When conducting the examination, it is necessary to remember the anisotropy effect, mainly when examining tendons and ligaments. It is also necessary to take into account the anamnesis data, which in some cases significantly facilitates diagnostics.
Frequent injuries and problems with the musculoskeletal system require medical attention and careful diagnostics. That is why it is necessary to know where to do an ultrasound of the knee joint, since most often people complain of injuries and damage. The knee joint connects the femur, patella and tibia and is the second largest joint. But since the knee joint is located superficially, it is most often subject to damage.
Indications for ultrasound examination of the knee joint
- Various injuries, bruises and sprains.
- Inflammatory sagging and degenerative-dystrophic diseases.
- Bone tumors, osteochondropathy.
- Damage to the meniscus, lateral and cruciate ligaments.
During the procedure, the doctor evaluates the presence of fluid in the joint, the condition of the internal and external ligaments, the thickness and structure of the cartilaginous and bone tissue. The study involves a simultaneous examination of the right and left knee joints. The doctor examines the front and side surfaces, as well as the back surface of the knee joint.