title: Morphologic characterization of meniscal root ligaments in the human knee with magnetic resonance microscopy at 11.7 and 3 T.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To determine the feasibility of using MR microscopy to characterize the root ligaments of the human knee at both ultra-high-field (11.7 T) and high-field (3 T) strengths.
  
  
  METHODS
  Seven fresh cadaveric knees were used for this study. Six specimens were imaged at 11.7 T and one specimen at 3 T using isotropic or near-isotropic voxels. Histologic correlation was performed on the posteromedial root ligament of one specimen. Meniscal root ligament shape, signal intensity, and ultrastructure were characterized.
  
  
  RESULTS
  High-resolution, high-contrast volumetric images were generated from both MR systems. Meniscal root ligaments were predominantly oval in shape. Increased signal intensity was most evident at the posteromedial and posterolateral root ligaments. On the specimen that underwent histologic preparation, increased signal intensity corresponded to regions of enthesis fibrocartilage. Collagen fascicles were continuous between the menisci and root ligaments. Predominantly horizontal meniscal radial tie fibers continued into the root ligaments as vertical endoligaments.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  MR microscopy can be used to characterize and delineate the distinct ultrastructure of the root ligaments on both ultra-high-field- and high-field-strength MR systems.
authors: Department of Radiology, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, 92161, USA, ericchangmd@gmail.com.
authors: Eric Y
authors: EY
authors: Chang
authors: Reni
authors: R
authors: Biswas
authors: Paul
authors: P
authors: DiCamillo
authors: Sheronda
authors: S
authors: Statum
authors: Monica
authors: M
authors: Tafur
authors: Graeme M
authors: GM
authors: Bydder
authors: Christine B
authors: CB
authors: Chung
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002102:Cadaver; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008592:Menisci, Tibial / Q000033:anatomy & histology*