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Synovial recesses of the knee: MR imaging review of anatomical and pathological features

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Abstract

The knee joint is a complex anatomical structure playing host to a wide variety of pathological processes. Knowledge of the anatomy of the synovial recesses and plicae relating to the knee is important, as the appearance of pathology in these unusual locations may, even for commonly encountered conditions, lead to diagnostic uncertainty. This review article discusses the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) anatomy of the knee joint with an emphasis on the synovial recesses and plicae. The MRI appearance of a variety of synovial and osteochondral diseases that may involve these sites is illustrated.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Radiology, The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, Harlow, Essex, UK

    S. Fenn

  2. Department of Radiology, The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, Brockley Hill, Stanmore, Middlesex, HA7 4LP, UK

    A. Datir & A. Saifuddin

  3. The Institute of Orthopaedics and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University College London, London, UK

    A. Saifuddin

  4. The Alliance Medical Imaging Centre, Bulstrode Place, London, UK

    A. Saifuddin

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  1. S. Fenn
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  2. A. Datir
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  3. A. Saifuddin
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Correspondence to A. Saifuddin.

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Fenn, S., Datir, A. & Saifuddin, A. Synovial recesses of the knee: MR imaging review of anatomical and pathological features. Skeletal Radiol 38, 317–328 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-008-0570-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-008-0570-0

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