Sonographic imaging of normal and osteoarthritic cartilage

Objectives: This study was undertaken to describe representative sonographi c features of normal and osteoarthritic cartilage. Methods: Sonographic evaluation was performed with real-time ultrasound equ ipment, using 7.5-, 10-, 13-, 15-, and 20-MHz transducers, Normal and osteo arthritic cartilage has been studied in healthy subjects and in patients wi th osteoarthritis, Results: Ultrasonography allows a safe, quick, and careful evaluation of bo th normal and osteoarthritic cartilage. A spectrum of images ranging from l oss of cartilage transparency to marked narrowing of the cartilage layer ca n be depicted clearly in patients with osteoarthritis, Loss of clarity of t he cartilaginous band and loss of the normal sharpness of the synovial spac e-cartilage interface are the earlier features of cartilage damage. Conclusions: Although the value of ultrasonography in the evaluation of art icular cartilage remains to be determined, this imaging method can be regar ded as a useful bedside procedure for initial diagnostic screening of osteo arthritic femoral condylar cartilage. Copyright (C) 1999 by W.B. Saunders C ompany.