Routine radiographs in acute knee distortions

The value of primary knee radiographs was examined in 144 cases with acute anterior cruciate ligament rupture to determine the ability of the films to reveal or confirm the correct diagnosis. In 15% of the patients, the radiographs were found to give significant diagnostic help by revealing typical avulsion fractures associated with injury to the ligament. Primary knee radiographs are recommended in every major knee ligament injury.