Suprapatellar plica and trochlear cartilage tear

Case contributed by Andrew Dixon
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Patellofemoral syndrome. Exclude osteochondral defect.

Patient Data

Age: 14
Gender: Female

Nondisplaced partial thickness cartilage tear is identified within the lateral trochlear cartilage.  This cartilage tear extends over approximately a 10mm length.  The subchondral marrow signal is preserved.

There is a mildly thickened suprapatellar plica identified with slight increase in the volume of fluid within the suprapatellar pouch above the plica.  No associated focal fat pad edema.  

Case Discussion

Nondisplaced partial thickness cartilage tear over 10 mm length involving the lateral trochlear. Mildly thickened suprapatellar plica with slightly increased fluid within the suprapatellar pouch of the knee joint above the plica.

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