J Korean Radiol Soc.  1995 Feb;32(2):321-324.

Meniscal Abnormalities in Soccer Players: Prevalence and MR Imaging

• Lee YC
• Kim KS
• Lee JB
• Shim HJ
• Song IS
• Lee JI
• Kwak BK
• Seo KM

Abstract

PURPOSE
We aimed to know the prevalence of abnormal meniscal signal on MR imaging in asymptomatic soccer players and its radiologic significance.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Using T1 and gradient echo T2* weighted sagittal and coronal MR image, 48 knees in twenty-four full time soccer players were evaluated for the meniscal abnormalities, the status of ligament and existance of joint effusion. Meniscal abnormalities were interpretated using grading system of Lotysch. By using Chi-square method, We analyzed the existance of joint effusion could divide the healing state and healed state of the meniscus.
RESULTS
The prevalence of Grade 2 and more and Grade 3 were 42% and 39% of asymptomatic knees. In the 24 knees with meniscus tear, nine of the 14 asymptomatic knee showed effusion while eight of the 10 symptomatic knee did. Of 24 knees with meniscal tear, only eleven knees were related to previous history of major knee trauma.
CONCLUSIONS
The prevalence of meniscal abnormalities on MR imaging in asymptomatic soccer players was higher(grade 3:39%) than we expected. The joint effusion was not helpful to divide the healing state and healed state of the meniscus. So we suggest baseline MR imaging in the athletes who have been using the knee vigorously could give decisive information for the interpretation of subsequent MRI that may be performed when the players wounded.

MeSH Terms

Athletes
Humans
Joints
Knee
Ligaments
Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
Prevalence*
Soccer*
Wounds and Injuries