A patient comes to radiology with a history of chondromalacia of the patella.The orthopedic surgeon is concerned about possible loose bodies in the femoropatellar joint space.She wants the best projection to demonstrate this joint space.What projection should be performed?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Merchant method is the best projection to demonstrate the femoropatellar joint space. This projection is performed with a 30-degree flexion angle of the knee and a 15-degree caudad beam angle. It allows visualization of the patellofemoral articulation without superimposition from other structures. Additionally, it is useful in detecting chondromalacia patella and patellar tracking abnormalities. The other options (A) Camp-Coventry method, (B) Settegast method, and (C) AP axial projection are not ideal for demonstrating the femoropatellar joint space.

A Patient Comes to Radiology with a History of Chondromalacia