Anterior and posterior cruciate ligament tears

Case contributed by Lam Van Le
Diagnosis certain

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

Age: 50 years
Gender: Male

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.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.