Abstract

Imaging appearances of synovial plicae syndrome of the knee

Synovial plicae are synovial folds that may be found as intraarticular structures within the knee joint. They are remnants of incomplete resorption of mesenchymal tissue during fetal development. Synovial plicae, if present, are supposed to be non-pathological and asymptomatic, however if they are exposed to special events like direct trauma or repeated activities, they may be inflamed and become fibrosed and rigid and irritates the synovium of the underlying femoral condyle resulting in secondary mechanical synovitis and chondromalacia leading to what is known as plica syndrome of the knee. Inspite plica syndrome is always suspected on clinical bases and can be clearly visualized by arthroscopic application, still diagnostic imaging by MRI, CT scan and Sonography play important role in the evaluation and diagnosis of this pathological condition. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the imaging appearances of synovial plicae syndrome of the knee on ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography scan (CT scan).

• PDF