MR imaging of the knee menisci

Familiarity with normal meniscal anatomy and common imaging pitfalls reduces but does not completely eliminate MR imaging interpretation errors. The MR imaging report should thoroughly describe tears and not simply indicate whether a meniscal tear is present. In the patient with an anterior cruciate ligament tear, the accuracy of MR imaging diminishes but still surpasses that of physical examination. The MR imaging criteria for meniscal tears need to be modified in patients who have undergone meniscal surgery. Basic and advanced concepts of meniscal MR imaging are illustrated with arthroscopically proved examples.