Comparison of X-ray, CT, MRI and ultrasonography in diagnosis of knee joint lipohemarthrosis

Forty eight patients with knee joint lipohemarthrosis underwent X-ray, CT, MRI and ultrasonography examinations, the diagnosis was confirmed by knee operation or puncture.The findings of 4 imaging methods were compared.Plain radiographs displayed fracture lines in 39 cases and fat-liquid layer of suprapatellar bursa in 40 cases, it displayed suprapatellar fat-liquid layer in 5 out of 9 occult fracture cases.CT displayed fracture lines in 48 cases and joint lipohemarthrosis in 48 cases; 3D imaging showed fracture lines better.MRI displayed fracture lines in 45 cases and joints lipohemarthrosis in 48 cases, and also showed the intracapsular structure injury.Ultrasonography revealed fracture lines in 15 cases and joint lipohemarthrosis in 48 cases, lipohemarthrosis was displayed in 7 out of 9 occult fracture cases.All 4 diagnostic imaging methods have advantages and disadvantages for diagnosis of lipohemarthrosis, and should be chosen on the basis of clinical needs.\r\n\r\nKey words: \r\nLipohemarthrosis;  Knee joint