Trochlear Dysplasia and Its Structural Correlates on Knee Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A Multiparametric Analysis
Abstract
Objectives: To investigate associations between trochlear dysplasia severity and various morphometric and degenerative findings on knee Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Methods: A total of 211 knee MRIs from 181 patients diagnosed with trochlear dysplasia between November 2012 and March 2025 were retrospectively reviewed. Morphometric parameters - sulcus angle, trochlear depth, tibial tuberosity to trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance, patellar angle, and patellar position - were measured. Chondromalacia patella (grades 0-4), meniscal degeneration and tear, and Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) mucoid degeneration were also recorded. Statistical analyses included ANOVA, Kruskal–Wallis, and chi-square tests.
Results: Trochlear dysplasia type A was the most common (61.1%). Significant associations were found between trochlear dysplasia severity and sulcus angle, TT-TG distance, and trochlear depth (P<0.0001 for all). While chondromalacia presence did not differ significantly across trochlear dysplasia types (P=0.203), its severity correlated with trochlear dysplasia grade (P=0.036). Meniscal degeneration was also significantly associated with trochlear dysplasia (P=0.0004), particularly when both menisci were involved (P=0.003). No significant associations were found for patellar angle, patellar position, meniscal tear, or ACL mucoid degeneration.
Conclusions: Trochlear dysplasia is significantly linked to specific morphologic and degenerative MRI findings. A comprehensive MRI-based assessment may aid in the diagnosis and management of patients with anterior knee pain and patellofemoral instability.
Keywords
Ethical Statement
References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Radiology and Organ Imaging
Journal Section
Research Article
Authors
Hande Özen Atalay
0000-0003-3524-9597
Türkiye
Early Pub Date
November 13, 2025
Publication Date
January 4, 2026
Submission Date
July 22, 2025
Acceptance Date
October 18, 2025
Published in Issue
Year 1970 Volume: 12 Number: 1