Clinical case study
Diagnostic imaging in acute ankle and knee injuries
In this case study you will meet two patients – Brian, a 48-year-old self-employed painter who has injured his knee when stepping down from a ladder, and Liz, a 28-year-old accountant who has injured her ankle at netball.
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Cost: free
Accreditation
This activity has been approved for 2 points (CPD Activity) under the RACGP CPD Program for the 2020–2022 triennium (activity: 191584)
This activity has been accredited for 1 hour under the educational activity category in the ACRRM PD Program for the 2020–2022 triennium (activity: 19403)
About
Acute ankle and knee injuries – is there a role for imaging?
In this case study you will meet two patients – Brian, a 48-year-old self-employed painter who has injured his knee when stepping down from a ladder, and Liz, a 28-year-old accountant who has injured her ankle at netball.
Is diagnostic imaging required for either patient? Would it change the management of their injuries or their recovery time?
Complete this online case study to brush up on Ottawa Ankle and Knee Rules and use of physical tests for differential diagnosis. You will also receive instant feedback on your responses and can compare your approach with your peers. Includes expert commentary provided by Dr Gill Cowen.
Learning outcomes
By completing this case study you will be able to:
- apply Ottawa Knee Rules and Ottawa Ankle Rules to help decide whether an X-ray is required for a probable acute knee/ankle fracture
- identify appropriate physical tests based on a targeted history to diagnose acute knee/ankle injury
- explain the limited role of MRI in diagnosing acute ACL/meniscal tear
- explain the limited role of ultrasound in diagnosing lateral ankle sprain
- identify relevant clinical information to include in a detailed imaging referral for acute knee/ankle injury.