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The results from the MRI of my knee came in, and the news is... not good. From the MRI Scan Report:
There is a subacute full thickness rupture of the ACL. There are marrow contusions demonstrated in the lateral femoral condyle and lateral tibial plateau. There is linear signal abnormality with a complex configuration in the posterior horn of the medial meniscus extending to both the meniscal periphery and the inferior articular surface consistent with a tear. High signal is seen along the fibers of the MCL consistent with a Grade II sprain. Marrow contusions are demonstrated within the medial femoral condyle and medial tibial plateau. |
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Diagram of knee |
There are lots of words in the report that I found disturbing: "contusions," "abnormality," "tear," and, worst of all, "rupture!" Eek! |
| But what does it all mean? The ACL is the anterior cruciate ligament, one of a pair of ligaments in the center of the knee joint that form a cross and stabilize the knee from front to back. |
A normal and torn ACL |
| When I stepped on my leg and felt my knee give away, I "ruptured," or tore, my ACL. | |
Diagram showing ligaments and menisci There are also two "shock absorbers" in the knee on either side of the joint. These are called the medial meniscus and the lateral meniscus. The menisci are horseshoe-shaped pieces of cartilage that help to center the knee joint during activity and minimize the amount of stress on the cartilage. |
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A meniscus tear |
It is fairly common that when the ACL is torn the meniscus is torn at the same time. This is what I did. If a part of the meniscus is torn, it can cause a significant amount of pain. This I can vouch for. |
| What's next for me? Very likely, surgery. On June 28th, I have an appointment to see an orthopedic specialist. At that point, they will reexamine my MRI and my knee. I will learn in more detail the status of my knee injury and how best to proceed. Until then, I will continue to be out of work, I will continue with my physical therapy, and I will continue to keep you informed. | |
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Posted: 6/18/2004 |
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