Indications for arthroscopic examination in the knee include the following:
- Acute hemarthrosis
- Meniscus injuries
- Foreign bodies
- Selected tibial plateau fractures
- Patellar chondromalacia or malalignment (or both)
- Chronic synovitis
- Knee instability
- Recurrent effusions
- Chondral and osteochondral fractures
Partly because of experience with arthroscopy, a specific diagnosis of the type of knee injury can now usually be made preoperatively. A specific diagnosis can then be confirmed, expanded, or revised, and treatment can be rendered as needed.
References:
- Ford DH, Post WR. Open or arthroscopic lateral release. Indications, techniques, and rehabilitation. Clin Sports Med. 1997 Jan;16(1):29-49. [Medline]
Created: May 21, 2005
