Imaging Findings of Avulsion Fractures Around the Knee
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Abstract
Avulsion fractures around the knee occur when a bone fragment is detached from the main osseous structure at its insertion site due to severe, sudden tensile forces or dynamic muscle contractions secondary to trauma, impacting joint stability. Timely and accurate diagnosis is essential for optimal treatment planning to prevent chronic joint instability, malunion, or post-traumatic osteoarthritis. This article reviews the radiographic features of major periarticular knee avulsions and patellar avulsion fractures. Although conventional radiography serves as the primary initial screening tool for osseous fragments, concomitant soft-tissue injuries to ligaments, tendons, menisci, and articular cartilage necessitate further evaluation with computed tomography (CT) and particularly Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) for a comprehensive assessment, ensuring appropriate and effective patient management.
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