Radiologic markers of osteoarthritis progression.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review radiographic and MRI developments in measuring osteoarthritis progression in the tibiofemoral compartment of the knee.

RECENT FINDINGS

Standardized techniques for measuring joint space width in the medial tibiofemoral compartment, using standardized radiographic protocols, have become accepted for quantifying changes in tibiofemoral in knee osteoarthritis. In addition, there is a significant body of supporting data on the longitudinal change in MRI-derived cartilage morphology (thickness, volume) as an end point to reflect osteoarthritis progression/cartilage loss.

SUMMARY

This review appraises the current methods of measurement of osteoarthritis progression and limitations with regards their interpretation and further development.