Imaging of Anatomical Variants Around the Knee

Semin Musculoskelet Radiol. 2023 Apr;27(2):198-205. doi: 10.1055/s-0043-1761955. Epub 2023 Apr 3.

Abstract

Several anatomical variants have been described in the knee. These variants may involve intra- and extra-articular structures, such as menisci, ligaments, plicae, bony structures, muscles, and tendons. They have a variable prevalence, are generally asymptomatic, and are usually discovered incidentally in knee magnetic resonance imaging examinations. A thorough knowledge of these findings is essential to avoid overestimating and overinvestigating normal findings. This article reviews most anatomical variants around the knee, describing how to avoid misinterpretation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Knee Injuries*
  • Knee Joint* / diagnostic imaging
  • Knee Joint* / pathology
  • Ligaments
  • Ligaments, Articular / diagnostic imaging
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Tendons / diagnostic imaging