Ottawa Knee Rule
Describes criteria for knee trauma patients so low risk as not to warrant knee imaging.
Patients who do not have any of the Ottawa Knee Rules present do not need an x-ray. If one or more of the conditions are met, then x-ray is recommended.
For significant non-bony injuries, often crutches and a knee immobilizer can be helpful to assist with ambulation.
Patients who do not have any of the Ottawa Knee Rules present do not need an x-ray. If one or more of the conditions are met, then x-ray is recommended.
Many experts would consider this score “one directional.” Because the rule is sensitive and not specific, it provides a clear guide of which patients not to x-ray if all criteria are met. However if a patient fails the criteria, need for x-ray can be left to clinical judgement.