Imaging of knee prostheses and related complications

Knee arthroplasty is a widely performed orthopedic procedure, primarily indicated for advanced osteoarthritis and, to a lesser extent, inflammatory arthropathies and post-traumatic sequelae. As the global burden of joint disease increases, especially in younger patients, the number of both primary and revision procedures is expected to rise. Despite generally favorable outcomes, up to 20% of patients experience complications, many of which can be identified through imaging. Imaging plays a fundamental role in the early detection and follow-up of complications related to knee prostheses. This is supported by evidence from the literature, with plain radiography occupying a central role, as it is typically the only imaging modality routinely provided to patients immediately postoperatively upon discharge. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging serve as complementary techniques in the evaluation of complications, while scintigraphy is primarily utilized in the assessment of infections.