Imaging of the postoperative knee: normal and pathologic findings

Surgical management of lesions of the knee has exponentially increased over the last several years. MRI plays a major role in postoperative follow-up and evaluation of patients with residual symptoms. Familiarity with the different surgical procedures and potential complications and knowledge of normal and abnormal postoperative MRI findings are essential for evaluation of the postoperative knee. The main purpose of this article is to review the postoperative imaging features of ligaments, menisci and cartilage of the knee joint since these MRI features may lead the surgeon to consider repeat surgery.