Mini MRI finds 'magic angle' for knee scans

The team said the device - which uses so-called 'magic angle' effect - could potentially help diagnose knee injuries more quickly, and more accurately.

In a proof-of-concept study using animal knees, the results suggest the technology could be used to show all the structures of the knee.

The scientists say the device could help diagnose conditions such as anterior cruciate ligament injuries and its small size means it could eventually be used in local clinics and GP surgeries.

Dr Karyn Chappell, a researcher and radiographer from Imperial's MSK Lab said: "Knee injuries affect millions of people - and MRI scans are crucial to diagnosing the problem, leading to quick and effective treatment. However we currently face two problems: connective tissue in the knee is unclear on MRI scans, and people are waiting a long time for a scan.

"This can cause particular problems for women, as they are at greater risk of anterior cruciate ligament injuries. The reasons for this are unclear, but it could be linked to hormones such as oestrogen making ligaments more elastic, leading to more joint injuries."