Presentation
Swelling, pain, and limited range of motion in the left knee joint following a traffic accident. Clinical examination raises suspicion of cruciate ligament injury.
Patient Data
The shape, orientation, and signal of the anterior cruciate ligament cannot be visualized in any sequence. The empty notch sign is also observed
The posterior cruciate ligament is barely visible, with only a few remaining fibers identifiable.
There is a longitudinal tear of the medial meniscus, with a displaced fragment positioned centrally.
Knee joint effusion is present.
Case Discussion
The imaging findings are consistent with complete tears of the ACL and PCL, along with a bucket-handle tear of the medial meniscus.
The patient subsequently underwent arthroscopic knee surgery, which confirmed the diagnosis, followed by reconstruction of both cruciate ligaments and meniscal repair. Post-surgery, the clinical symptoms improved.