Office-based Arthroscopy. Evolution of the Procedure.
A review of the results of the second 100 cases of office-based arthroscopy is presented. The major difference between the first 100 cases and the present group has been the change from a diagnostic mode to an interventional mode. This transition has been facilitated by the use of a 2.7-mm, 30-degree oblique arthroscope along with a computerized fluid management system. The indications included knee pain refractory to conservative measures that included rest, exercise, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, monoarticular arthritis of uncertain etiology, and the abrupt onset of locking suggestive of an acute mechanical problem. The pathology found at the time of arthroscopy for the most part confirmed the clinical impression; however, there were several instances in which the diagnosis was changed and the subsequent medical therapy was changed accordingly. The clinical response to arthroscopic intervention generally paralleled what has been reported by others, with important and prolonged relief of pain in most cases. Three major complications (septic joint, cellulitis, and thrombophlebitis) were seen. Strategies are suggested to avoid these. Arthroscopy is valuable in establishing, confirming, or possibly negating previous diagnostic impressions. More importantly, the ability to perform arthroscopic intervention in the office in patients with arthritis adds another therapeutic weapon to the armamentarium of clinical rheumatologists.
Wei
N
N
The Arthritis & Osteoporosis Center of Maryland, 71 Thomas Johnson Drive, Frederick, Maryland, The authors do not have financial ties that would be construed as a conflict of interest.
Delauter
S K
SK
Erlichman
M S
MS