Avulsion injuries: an update on radiologic findings

ESR essentials: MRI of the knee-practice recommendations by ESSR

Many studies and systematic reviews have been published about MRI of the knee and its structures, discussing detailed anatomy, imaging findings, and correlations between imaging and clinical findings. This paper includes evidence-based recommendations for a general radiologist regarding choice of imaging sequences and reporting basic MRI examinations of the knee. We recommend using clinicians' terminology when it is applicable to the imaging findings, for example, when reporting meniscal, ligament and tendon, or cartilage pathology. The intent is to standardise reporting language and to make reports less equivocal. The aim of the paper is to improve the usefulness of the MRI report by understanding the strengths and limitations of the MRI exam with regard to clinical correlation. We hope the implementation of these recommendations into radiological practice will increase diagnostic accuracy and consistency by avoiding pitfalls and reducing overcalling of pathology on MRI of the knee. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: The recommendations presented here are meant to aid general radiologists in planning and assessing studies to evaluate acute and chronic knee findings by advocating the use of unequivocal terminology and discussing the strengths and limitations of MRI examination of the knee. KEY POINTS: • On MRI, the knee should be examined and assessed in three orthogonal imaging planes. • The basic general protocol must yield T2-weighted fluid-sensitive and T1-weighted images. • The radiological assessment should include evaluation of ligamentous structures, cartilage, bony structures and bone marrow, soft tissues, bursae, alignment, and incidental findings.

Surgical management of posterior ligament complex stripping in an adolescent spinal flexion distraction injury: A case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION

Adolescent spinal injuries such as flexion-distraction injuries with posterior ligament complex (PLC) stripping require specialized management because of the unique interplay between injury mechanics and spinal growth. This case report sheds light on these rare occurrences and their management.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

An 11-year-old boy sustained spinal flexion-distraction injuries resulting in posterior ligament complex stripping following a passenger traffic accident. He underwent a meticulously planned surgical intervention involving urgent posterior fusion with pedicle screw fixation at the L1-2-3 levels and allograft bone grafting. This approach was chosen considering the unique challenges posed by his adolescent spinal anatomy and the nature of his injuries. Postoperative management included using thoracolumbar-sacral orthosis (TLSO), facilitating early ambulation and recovery.

DISCUSSION

The rarity of PLC stripping in adolescents underscores the importance of case studies for guiding care. This instance validates the surgical approach and highlights the importance of postoperative management with TLSO for early mobility and prevention of growth-related deformities. This case emphasizes the need for vigilant surgical and postoperative strategies in adolescent spinal injury management.

CONCLUSION

An early surgical approach complemented by strategic postoperative management, including the use of TLSO for early mobilization, is vital for the treatment of adolescent spinal injuries. Effective recovery and careful consideration of spinal growth are essential during treatment. Documenting such cases contributes to the body of knowledge necessary to enhance the care strategies for patients with similar injuries.

Ischial Tuberosity Avulsion Fracture Mimicking Calcified Mass on Plain Films: A Case Report

Ischial tuberosity avulsion fractures are overall uncommon but are known injuries in the adolescent population. They are the result of sudden, forceful contraction of the hamstring muscle groups. The characteristic radiographic appearance of an ischial tuberosity avulsion fracture is of an irregular ischial margin and a nearby avulsed bone fragment. Callous formation may ensue and appears as a calcific density in the region of injury. Awareness of the spectrum of radiographic presentations can help ensure correct diagnosis and minimize concern for alternative underlying diagnoses. This case report describes a 14-year-old boy with a chronic ischial tuberosity avulsion fracture which demonstrated an unusual presentation on radiographs and required MRI to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potentially ominous pathology.