[Functional MRI of the femoropatellar joint].

Conventional X-ray examinations of the patellofemoral joint in 30 degrees, 60 degrees and 90 degrees of knee flexion demonstrate the position of the patella. On the other hand, they have been shown to be insufficient for the diagnosis of patellofemoral maltracking in the critical range between 30 degrees of flexion and full extension. Motion-triggered and ultrafast MRI offer new possibilities for functional diagnosis of the patello-femoral joint under active knee motion. Functional MRI of the patellofemoral joint is suggested as an alternative to arthroscopy, particularly in patients with anterior knee pain or suspected patellar maltracking.