Sagittal 2D fast SE images obtained with various techniques in the same knee as in Figure 2. (a) T1-weighted image shows poor contrast between the cartilage surface and synovial fluid, a disadvantage that prevents accurate assessment of a focal cartilaginous defect (arrowheads). (b, c) T2-weighted (b) and proton density–weighted (c) images provide better contrast between the cartilage surface and synovial fluid, allowing identification of a full-thickness cartilaginous defect (arrowheads) in the medial femoral condyle. A tear of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus also is visible in a–c.

Figure 3a.

Figure 3b.

Figure 3c.