The value of knee arthroscopy in patients with severe radiological osteoarthritis

Background. This study was performed to assess the value of knee arthroscopy in patients with radiological signs of severe osteoarthritis.

Methods. A total of 104 patients (50 men, 54 women, average age 60 years) with radiological knee osteoarthritis grade III/IV were followed up after knee arthroscopy between May 1989 and November 1996. The average follow-up time was 5.4 years after surgery.

Results. A significant (p<0.01) increase in the Lysholm score was found, ranging from 40 points before arthroscopy to 69 points at the assessment. A total of 84 patients (81%) reported an increase in their activities of daily living, 44 patients (43%) were still without any complaints. The total outcome was rated very good or good by 67 patients (65%). Only 21 patients (20%) required further surgery before the assessment.

Conclusions. Knee arthroscopy is a valuable treatment for patients with pain, swelling, and radiological signs of severe osteoarthritis. It improves the patients’ activities of daily living and helps to postpone further surgery.