Comparative Efficacy of High-Resolution Ultrasonography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Morphological Assessment of Knee Joint Soft Tissue Traumas

Abstract

The structural complexity and biomechanical vulnerability of the knee joint necessitate unparalleled diagnostic precision to guide orthopedic interventions. This cross-sectional radiological study critically reevaluates the diagnostic validity of high-frequency ultrasonography (US) against magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in characterizing articular lesions. Analyzing a clinical cohort of 145 patients prior to arthroscopic surgery, the research quantifies tissue-specific visualization parameters. Empirical data demonstrate that US provides exceptional morphological clarity for peripheral structures, achieving a sensitivity of 93.1% for collateral ligament tears and 100% for superficial bursal fluid collections. Conversely, acoustic impedance severely restricts sonographic evaluation of deep intra-articular spaces. MRI demonstrated 97.4% sensitivity for anterior cruciate ligament ruptures and 95.2% for complex meniscal tears, alongside detecting subchondral bone marrow edema. The dynamics of these results indicate that diagnostic accuracy is strictly anatomically dependent. Implementing a stratified, zone-based imaging protocol minimizes diagnostic delays and prevents the overutilization of high-field scanners for exclusively extra-articular pathologies.