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Franulic N, Laso J, Del Pino C, Brito C, Olivieri R, Gaggero N. Arthroscopic fibroarthrolysis and mobilization under anesthesia is a simple, reproducible, and satisfactory method for the treatment of patients with severe post-traumatic arthrofibrosis of the knee. Rev Esp Cir Ortop Traumatol (Engl Ed) 2024:S1888-4415(24)00123-1. [PMID: 38997005 DOI: 10.1016/j.recot.2024.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the range of motion (ROM) of the knee in patients with severe post-traumatic knee arthrofibrosis after being treated with arthroscopic fibroarthrolysis (AFA) and manipulation under anesthesia (MUA). METHODS Case series of patients with severe post-traumatic knee arthrofibrosis who underwent AFL+MUA in a national referral center. The primary outcome to be assessed was ROM before and after surgery and then at 3-month intervals until a minimum follow-up of one year was completed. RESULTS 51 patients were included. The main injuries preceding the stiffness were tibial plateau fracture (37.3%), distal femur fracture (27.5%), and femoral shaft fracture (15.7%). Forty-five patients had severe flexion deficits with a median preoperative flexion of 70°. Intraoperative flexion significantly improved to 110°. Significant loss of flexion was observed at 3 and 6 months, however, patients regained ROM in the 9 and 12-month follow-ups. At discharge, 80% of the patients achieved flexion of 90° or more. There were 4 intraoperative complications and 3 reinterventions were performed. CONCLUSION AFA+MUA can help patients with severe post-traumatic knee arthrofibrosis to recover ROM in most cases. However, this procedure is not without risks and complications, therefore, careful consideration should be given to its indication and execution.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Franulic
- Knee Surgeon Hospital del Trabajador ACHS, Santiago, Chile; Knee Surgeon Hospital Militar, Santiago, Chile; Assistant Professor at Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.
| | - J Laso
- Knee Surgeon Hospital del Trabajador ACHS, Santiago, Chile; Knee Surgeon, Hospital Barros Luco Trudeau, Santiago, Chile
| | - C Del Pino
- Orthopedics and Traumatology Resident, Universidad Andres Bello, Chile
| | - C Brito
- Knee Surgeon Hospital Naval Almirante Nef, Viña del Mar, Chile
| | - R Olivieri
- Knee Surgeon Hospital del Trabajador ACHS, Santiago, Chile
| | - N Gaggero
- Knee Surgeon Hospital del Trabajador ACHS, Santiago, Chile
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Brinkman JC, Iturregui JM, Moore ML, Haglin J, Thompson A, Makovicka J, Economopoulos KJ. Arthroscopic Posterior Capsular Release Improves Range of Motion and Outcomes for Flexion Contracture After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Athletes. Arthrosc Sports Med Rehabil 2024; 6:100914. [PMID: 39006795 PMCID: PMC11240015 DOI: 10.1016/j.asmr.2024.100914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To assess outcomes of arthroscopic posterior capsular release among athletes for loss of terminal extension following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Methods A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was performed for patients undergoing arthroscopic posterior capsular release for knee extension loss following ACL reconstruction between January 2014 and December 2019. Procedure indications included extension loss greater than 10° at least 3 months after ACL reconstruction that was refractory to physical therapy. Patients were included if they were involved in either high school or college athletics, had complete outcomes of interest, and had at least 2 years of follow-up. Prospectively collected outcomes included preoperative and postoperative measurement of knee extension, International Knee Documentation Committee score, Lysholm score, return to sport data, and complications. Results Eighteen athletes with minimum 2 years of follow-up who underwent posterior capsular release following ACL reconstruction performed by a single surgeon were included in the analysis. Patients underwent surgery at an average of 16 weeks after ACL reconstruction. Knee extension improved an average of 13.8° at 2 years' follow-up (prerelease mean extension deficit 15.1°, postrelease mean extension deficit 1.3°, P < .005). Improvements in the International Knee Documentation Committee score averaged 21.7 at 6 months and 35.0 at 24 months, both of which were statistically significant (P < .001). Similarly, differences in Lysholm included a significant improvement of 23.0 and 34.2 at 6 months and 2 years, respectively (P < .001). In total, 77.8% returned to sport at an average of 9.8 months from their primary ACL surgery and 6.5 months following posterior capsular release surgery. No infections or neurovascular complications were observed. One patient required secondary release to achieve adequate extension. Conclusions For athletes with persistent knee extension loss after ACL reconstruction, knee extension was significantly improved at 2 years following arthroscopic posterior capsular release. Substantial improvements in patient-reported outcomes also were seen. In addition, subjects demonstrated a high rate of return to sport and return to preinjury performance levels. Level of Evidence Level IV, therapeutic case series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph C Brinkman
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.A
| | - Jose M Iturregui
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.A
| | - M Lane Moore
- Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Scottsdale, Arizona, U.S.A
| | - Jack Haglin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.A
| | - Adam Thompson
- University of Vermont School of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont, U.S.A
| | - Justin Makovicka
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.A
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3
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Arthroscopic Posterior Capsular Release Effectively Reduces Pain and Restores Terminal Knee Extension in Cases of Recalcitrant Flexion Contracture. Arthrosc Sports Med Rehabil 2022; 4:e1409-e1415. [PMID: 36033179 PMCID: PMC9402456 DOI: 10.1016/j.asmr.2022.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To 1) evaluate the clinical efficacy of arthroscopic posterior capsular release for improving range of motion (ROM) in cases of recalcitrant flexion contracture and 2) determine patient-reported outcomes (PROs) postoperatively. Methods Retrospective chart review was performed to identify patients who underwent arthroscopic posterior capsular release due to persistent extension deficit of the knee despite comprehensive nonoperative physical therapy between 2008 and 2021. Knee ROM and PROs (International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC], Tegner, and visual analog scale [VAS]) were collected at final follow-up. Results Overall, 22 patients were included with a median age of 37 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 20.5-44.3). Of these, 8 (36%) were male and 14 (64%) were female, and average follow-up was 3.7 ± 3.3 years. The most common etiology was knee flexion contracture after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (59%). All patients failed a minimum of 3 months of nonoperative management. Prior to operative intervention, 100% of patients received physical therapy, 64% received extension knee bracing or casting, and 36% received corticosteroid injection. Median preoperative extension was 15° (IQR: 10-25) compared to 2° (IQR: 0-5) postoperatively (P < .001). At final follow-up, median extension was 0° (IQR: 0-3.5). Postoperative VAS pain scores at rest (2 vs 0; P = .001) and with use (5 vs 1.8; P = .017) improved at final contact, and most (94%) patients reported maintaining their extension ROM. Patients with ACL-related extension deficit reported better IKDC (81 vs 51.3; P = .008), Tegner (5.8 vs 3.6; P = .007), and VAS pain scores (rest: 0.2 vs 1.8; P = .008; use: 1.3 vs 5; P = .004) compared to other etiologies. Conclusion Arthroscopic posterior capsular release for recalcitrant flexion contracture provides an effective means for reducing pain and restoring terminal extension. The improvement in extension postoperatively was maintained for most (94%) patients at final follow-up with a 14% reoperation rate.
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Arthroscopic Posterior Capsulotomy for Knee Flexion Contracture Using a Spinal Needle. Arthrosc Tech 2021; 10:e1903-e1907. [PMID: 34401231 PMCID: PMC8355179 DOI: 10.1016/j.eats.2021.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Knee flexion contractures can arise from posterior capsule arthrofibrosis secondary to trauma, surgery, or chronic degenerative disease. This leads to limited knee extension and increased mechanical stress on the contralateral joint. Depending on the severity of the contracture, a treatment option may include surgical release of the posterior capsule. Arthroscopic posterior capsular release has been reported previously to have excellent resolution of extension deficits with minimal risk of postoperative complications. These techniques typically use an array of instruments, including shavers, biters, or scissors to perform arthrolysis of the posteromedial and posterolateral capsules. Our primary objective is to present a modified arthroscopic surgical technique for percutaneous treatment of knee flexion contracture using a spinal needle to perform a posterior capsule release.
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Arthroscopic Posterior Capsular Release for Loss of Knee Extension. Arthrosc Tech 2020; 9:e1439-e1446. [PMID: 33134044 PMCID: PMC7587019 DOI: 10.1016/j.eats.2020.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Arthrofibrosis, as a result of osteoarthritis, after trauma, or after knee surgery, can have significant implications for patient function, satisfaction, and outcomes. When extensive conservative management fails to achieve satisfactory results, surgical intervention may be necessary. Arthroscopic techniques to release anterior adhesions are often viewed as easier and safer than posterior releases required for flexion contractures. We present our technique of a safe, effective, and reproducible arthroscopic complete posterior capsulotomy.
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Atluri K, Brouillette MJ, Seol D, Khorsand B, Sander E, Salem AK, Fredericks D, Petersen E, Smith S, Fowler TP, Martin JA. Sulfasalazine Resolves Joint Stiffness in a Rabbit Model of Arthrofibrosis. J Orthop Res 2020; 38:629-638. [PMID: 31692083 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Joint stiffness due to fibrosis/capsule contracture is a seriously disabling complication of articular injury that surgical interventions often fail to completely resolve. Fibrosis/contracture is associated with the abnormal persistence of myofibroblasts, which over-produce and contract collagen matrices. We hypothesized that intra-articular therapy with drugs targeting myofibroblast survival (sulfasalazine), or collagen production (β-aminopropionitrile and cis-hydroxyproline), would reduce joint stiffness in a rabbit model of fibrosis/contracture. Drugs were encapsulated in poly[lactic-co-glycolic] acid pellets and implanted in joints after fibrosis/contracture induction. Capsule α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression and intimal thickness were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and histomorphometry, respectively. Joint stiffness was quantified by flexion-extension testing. Drawer tests were employed to determine if the drugs induced cruciate ligament laxity. Joint capsule fibroblasts were tested in vitro for contractile activity and α-SMA expression. Stiffness in immobilized joints treated with blank pellets (control) was significantly higher than in non-immobilized, untreated joints (normal) (p = 0.0008), and higher than in immobilized joints treated with sulfasalazine (p = 0.0065). None of the drugs caused significant cruciate ligament laxity. Intimal thickness was significantly lower than control in the normal and sulfasalazine-treated groups (p = 0.010 and 0.025, respectively). Contractile activity in the cells from controls was significantly increased versus normal (p = 0.001). Sulfasalazine and β-aminopropionitrile significantly inhibited this effect (p = 0.005 and 0.0006, respectively). α-SMA expression was significantly higher in control versus normal (p = 0.0021) and versus sulfasalazine (p = 0.0007). These findings support the conclusion that sulfasalazine reduced stiffness by clearing myofibroblasts from fibrotic joints. Statement of clinical significance: The results provide proof-of-concept that established joint stiffness can be resolved non-surgically. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:629-638, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keerthi Atluri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242
| | - Marc J Brouillette
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242
| | - Dongrim Seol
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242
| | - Behnoush Khorsand
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242
| | - Edward Sander
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242
| | - Aliasger K Salem
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242
| | - Douglas Fredericks
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242
| | - Emily Petersen
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242
| | - Sonja Smith
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242
| | - Timothy P Fowler
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242
| | - James A Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242.,Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242
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Pinter Z, Staggers R, Lee S, Bergstresser S, Shah A, Naranje S. Open posterior capsular release with an osteotome in total knee arthroplasty does not place important neurovascular structures at risk. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2019; 27:2120-2123. [PMID: 30767066 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-019-05399-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Posterior capsular contracture is a potential consequence of osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and surgical procedures of the knee. Many patients who undergo TKA will be found to have some degree of flexion contracture intraoperatively, which necessitates posterior capsular release. There is no information in the literature about the safety of posterior capsular release done during TKA. The present cadaveric study investigates the safety of posterior capsular release during TKA. METHODS This study involved ten fresh-frozen cadaver specimens, each of which underwent three successive releases of the posterior capsule medially, laterally, and in the midline. One senior joint surgeon performed this procedure with a 1.27 cm curved osteotome, hugging the bone posteriorly on the distal aspect of the femur until the osteotome moved freely behind the bone without resistance. The distance from the distal aspect of the femur to the tip of the osteotome was then measured. Finally, the popliteal fossa was dissected, and the course of the neurovascular bundle was followed to assess for any macroscopic injury. RESULTS The capsule was penetrated at a median depth of 13.6 cm (range 10.3-17.6). Even at this depth, no injuries to the popliteal artery, tibial nerve, or popliteal vein occurred in any of the 30 penetrating events. CONCLUSION This study suggests that posterior capsular release can be performed safely with this technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachariah Pinter
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1201 11th Avenue South, Suite 200, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Rucker Staggers
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1201 11th Avenue South, Suite 200, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Sung Lee
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1201 11th Avenue South, Suite 200, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Shelby Bergstresser
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1201 11th Avenue South, Suite 200, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Ashish Shah
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1201 11th Avenue South, Suite 200, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA
| | - Sameer Naranje
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1201 11th Avenue South, Suite 200, Birmingham, AL, 35205, USA.
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Usher KM, Zhu S, Mavropalias G, Carrino JA, Zhao J, Xu J. Pathological mechanisms and therapeutic outlooks for arthrofibrosis. Bone Res 2019; 7:9. [PMID: 30937213 PMCID: PMC6433953 DOI: 10.1038/s41413-019-0047-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Arthrofibrosis is a fibrotic joint disorder that begins with an inflammatory reaction to insults such as injury, surgery and infection. Excessive extracellular matrix and adhesions contract pouches, bursae and tendons, cause pain and prevent a normal range of joint motion, with devastating consequences for patient quality of life. Arthrofibrosis affects people of all ages, with published rates varying. The risk factors and best management strategies are largely unknown due to a poor understanding of the pathology and lack of diagnostic biomarkers. However, current research into the pathogenesis of fibrosis in organs now informs the understanding of arthrofibrosis. The process begins when stress signals stimulate immune cells. The resulting cascade of cytokines and mediators drives fibroblasts to differentiate into myofibroblasts, which secrete fibrillar collagens and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Positive feedback networks then dysregulate processes that normally terminate healing processes. We propose two subtypes of arthrofibrosis occur: active arthrofibrosis and residual arthrofibrosis. In the latter the fibrogenic processes have resolved but the joint remains stiff. The best therapeutic approach for each subtype may differ significantly. Treatment typically involves surgery, however, a pharmacological approach to correct dysregulated cell signalling could be more effective. Recent research shows that myofibroblasts are capable of reversing differentiation, and understanding the mechanisms of pathogenesis and resolution will be essential for the development of cell-based treatments. Therapies with significant promise are currently available, with more in development, including those that inhibit TGF-β signalling and epigenetic modifications. This review focuses on pathogenesis of sterile arthrofibrosis and therapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayley M. Usher
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia Australia
| | - Sipin Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang China
| | - Georgios Mavropalias
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia Australia
| | | | - Jinmin Zhao
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi China
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi China
| | - Jiake Xu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia Australia
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi China
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Malinowski K, Góralczyk A, Hermanowicz K, LaPrade RF, Więcek R, Domżalski ME. Arthroscopic Complete Posterior Capsulotomy for Knee Flexion Contracture. Arthrosc Tech 2018; 7:e1135-e1139. [PMID: 30533360 PMCID: PMC6262078 DOI: 10.1016/j.eats.2018.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Knee flexion contracture is a clinically important complication that can be observed after trauma, after knee surgery, or as a result of osteoarthritis. When it is left untreated, knee shearing forces increase not only in the affected joint but also in the contralateral knee, leading to mechanical overload in both limbs. Conservative management is a first-line treatment option for extension deficits, but when it fails, surgical treatment is necessary. Open as well as arthroscopic techniques focus mainly on an anterior arthrolysis and a posterior capsular release. Until now, posterior capsulotomy involved either a medial posterior capsular release or medial and lateral posterior capsular releases. Our aim is to present the technique of arthroscopic complete posterior capsulotomy for knee flexion contractures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konrad Malinowski
- Artromedical Orthopaedic Clinic, Belchatów, Poland,Address correspondence to Konrad Malinowski, M.D., Ph.D., Artromedical Orthopaedic Clinic, Chrobrego 24, 97-400 Belchatów, Poland.
| | | | | | - Robert F. LaPrade
- Steadman Philippon Research Institute, Vail, Colorado, U.S.A.,The Steadman Clinic, Vail, Colorado, U.S.A
| | - Rafał Więcek
- Artromedical Orthopaedic Clinic, Belchatów, Poland
| | - Marcin E. Domżalski
- Orthopedic and Trauma Department, Veteran's Memorial Teaching Hospital in Lodz, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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Abstract
The rates of arthroscopic meniscus repair continue to increase with excellent reported outcomes. Complications, sometimes catastrophic, following meniscus repair may occur. The rate of postoperative complications may be reduced by adequate diagnosis, appropriate patient selection, meniscus repair selection, surgical techniques, and postoperative management. When complications occur, the provider must identify and take steps to rectify as well as prevent further complications from occurring. The purpose of this article is to detail the common diagnostic, technical, and postoperative pitfalls that may result in poor patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew H Blake
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Avera McKennan Hospital and University Health Center, 911 East 20th Street, Suite 300, Sioux Falls, SD 57105, USA.
| | - Darren L Johnson
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Kentucky School of Medicine, 740 South Limestone, K403, Lexington, KY 40536-0284, USA
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