EVALUATION OF CARTILAGE DAMAGE IN OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE KNEE: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF CONVENTIONAL RADIOGRAPHY, ULTRASONOGRAPHY, AND MRI

Background and Aims: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease impacting the musculoskeletal system, especially the knee joint, causing pain, disability, and economic burden. Traditional diagnosis primarily relies on conventional radiography, which is limited in detecting early cartilage and soft-tissue changes. Emerging imaging techniques, such as ultrasonography (USG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), offer non-invasive and detailed evaluations of cartilage and soft tissue. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of conventional radiography, USG, and MRI in assessing cartilage damage in knee OA to inform optimal diagnostic approaches.Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Radiodiagnosis, N.S.C.B. Subharti Medical College, Meerut, from August 2022 to June 2024, including 102 patients aged 20-70 years with clinically suspected knee OA. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained. Imaging assessments with X-ray, USG, and MRI were performed following standardized protocols. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.Results: Among 102 cases, females constituted 61.8% and males 38.2%, indicating a higher prevalence in females. X-ray and MRI were particularly effective for identifying advanced OA cases, while USG showed sensitivity in early detection. Combining these modalities enhanced diagnostic accuracy by capturing both bony and soft-tissue changes.Conclusion: Integrating conventional radiography, USG, and MRI provides a comprehensive assessment of knee OA, supporting better diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning, particularly in advanced cases.Subject: Orthopedic Imaging and Diagnostics in Knee Osteoarthritis