[Results of surgical arthrolysis in treatment of restricted knee joint movement].
OBJECTIVE
The study's task is to describe the results of the 58 arthrolysis of the knee joint, which were performed between 1967 and 1995. Additionally, we wanted to find out about the influencing factors on the long-term results after this operation.


METHODS
The data used for this retrospective study is based on the complete charts, in which the findings of the postoperative follow-up examinations were documented (range of motion, local findings, gait). The average follow-up time was 3.2 +/- 3.6 years. In order to draw conclusions, we focused on the extent of motion and on the relative benefit of motion. Despite of the inhomogeneity of the collective of patients, we performed statistical tests for a better presentation.


RESULTS
The mean knee joint moveability was increased from 0 degree/11 degrees/46 degrees to 0 degree/7 degrees/90 degrees at the last follow-up date. The relative benefit was 44.5% (Median 54%). Additionally, the extraarticular procedures had the best, the combined arthrolysis the worst outcome. Postinfectious stiffness of the knee did not show a worse prognosis in comparison to non-infectious causes for a decrease in motion.


CONCLUSIONS
Depending on the preoperative findings, the range of moveability was considerably better, when the indication for the performance of an arthrolysis was recognized in time.
Pretzsch
M
M
Orthopädische Klinik und Poliklinik, Universität Leipzig.
Dippold
A
A
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003286:Contracture / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011182:Postoperative Care / Q000379:methods; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular / Q000502:physiology; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome