Ultrasound of the knee joint

Knee Ultrasound – What Does It Involve?

Knee ultrasound is a safe and non-invasive imaging test that allows for the assessment of the knee joint structures, such as ligaments, menisci, bursae, synovial membrane, articular cartilage, and tendons. This method is based on the emission of ultrasound waves, which reflect off tissues of different densities and are then recorded by the ultrasound probe and displayed on the monitor. The images obtained in this way allow for the evaluation of the knee's condition.

The knee joint is the largest and most complex joint in the human body, connecting the femoral condyles, tibia, and patella via ligaments. Its stability is ensured by ligaments, and the movement is cushioned by the menisci, which prevent excessive friction and wear of the articular cartilage. Additionally, the joint is surrounded by the synovial membrane and bursae, which produce synovial fluid, reducing friction and ensuring smooth movement.

When to Perform a Knee Ultrasound? Indications for the Test

Knee ultrasound is performed in the diagnosis of injuries and chronic conditions. It is particularly recommended in the case of:

• pain in the knee area that persists for more than a few days;
• swelling or puffiness in the knee area;
• the appearance of a palpable lump;
• restricted joint mobility, the feeling of "locking" of the knee;
• suspected ligament, meniscus, or tendon damage;
• the presence of effusion in the joint;
• inflammatory joint conditions, cysts, abscesses, or hematomas;
• suspected degenerative changes, such as patellar chondromalacia;
• post-surgical follow-up, such as ligament reconstruction;
• diagnosis of post-traumatic changes, such as dislocations or sprains.

Contraindications for Performing Knee Ultrasound

There are no absolute contraindications for performing this test. Unlike X-ray examinations, ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation, making it completely safe and suitable for repeated use, including for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children.

The only contraindications may be:

• extensive wounds, burns, or skin damage around the knee joint that may hinder the contact of the ultrasound probe with the skin;
• fresh bandages or casts – in such cases, the examination may be limited or impossible to perform.

If there are doubts about the possibility of performing an ultrasound, it is advisable to consult a specialist beforehand.

What Does an Orthopedic Knee Ultrasound Look Like?

The entire test lasts about 15-20 minutes and is completely painless.

The ultrasound examination of the knee joint is performed by a radiologist or orthopedic specialist using an ultrasound machine with a linear probe.

During the test, the patient lies on their back in a straight position or with the knee bent, depending on the structure being examined. In the case of examining the popliteal fossa, the patient is asked to lie on their stomach. The doctor applies a special gel to the skin to improve the conduction of ultrasound waves and places the ultrasound probe on the knee joint.

How to Prepare for a Knee Joint Ultrasound?

No special preparation is required for a knee joint ultrasound. On the day of the test, you should:

• wear comfortable clothing that allows for the exposure of the knee joint;
• avoid using lotions, creams, or oils on the skin of the knee;
• if it is a post-injury examination, it is helpful to bring previous X-rays of the knees or MRI of the knee if they were performed.

How Long Do You Have to Wait for Knee Ultrasound Results?

The results, in the form of a medical description and ultrasound image, are provided to the patient immediately after the test is completed. Depending on the facility, the result may also be available online.

To obtain a full diagnosis and appropriate recommendations, it is advisable to consult the results with an orthopedist.

More information about receiving results at the selected facility can be found HERE.

Knee Ultrasound Privately – Fast Appointments, No Referral Needed

Knee ultrasound can be performed privately, without a referral, at many medical centers in Poland. We offer fast appointment dates in large cities such as Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław, Gdańsk, Katowice.

If you need an urgent appointment, check available dates for today and book online – in many facilities, we offer the possibility of booking the test even on the same day.

Knee Ultrasound – Test Price

The cost of a knee joint ultrasound varies depending on the city and facility. Prices start from 180 PLN, and the average price in larger cities is 300-350 PLN.