Imaging of patellofemoral joint

Abstract

Patellofemoral syndrome is the most common cause of knee pain in young active patients, and although its aetiology is multifactorial, there is an apparent consensus that the most common cause is the extensor mechanism dysfunction caused by patellofemoral malalignment [1]. Due to the complexity for determining the precise aetiology, additionally to an accurate physical examination, radiographic approach is needed to identify those anatomic factors. In most cases, standard radiographs are sufficient for evaluating those anatomic abnormalities [2, 3]. In specific or complex cases, additional studies such computerised tomography (CT), magnetic resonance (MRI), bone scan (BE) or ultrasonography may be required.