The knee

Abstract

Ultrasound can effectively be used to evaluate many structures of the knee. The resolution of ultrasound is maximized when evaluating superficial structures. Therefore, evaluation of superficial structures such as the extensor mechanism of the knee, the medial collateral ligament, and joint recesses can be quite successful. Because resolution is generally decreased as the depth of the structure being evaluated increases, ultrasound is less effective for deep structures as well as intraarticular structures, such as cartilage or intrinsic knee ligaments. © 2008 Springer-Verlag New York.