Longitudinal Clinical Evaluation of Cartilage and Meniscus UTE-T2* Following ACL Reconstruction

Ashley A. Williams¹, Yongxian Qian², Constance R. Chu¹

This study examines UTE-T2* maps in 16 subjects acquired prior to and 12-months following ACL reconstruction surgery. UTE-T2* values decrease to asymptomatic levels in deep pMFC cartilage, suggesting healing of the deep articular cartilage matrix over 12 months following surgery. Meniscus UTE-T2* values in half of the subjects remain elevated or show further increases over the 12 months, demonstrating evidence of persistent subsurface degeneration a year after operative stabilization of the ACL-injured knee. Together these findings suggest that UTE-T2* provides a useful non-invasive tool to monitor cartilage and meniscal status in knees at risk of developing OA.