The Journal of arthroplasty
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Forty-eight total knee arthroplasties (42 patients) were treated arthroscopically for symptomatic peripatellar fibrosis. All patients complained of knee pain before surgery. In addition, 47 knees (98%) had clicking or clunking, 35 (73%) had difficulty climbing stairs, and 9 (19%) had motion problems. ⋯ In contrast to past reports, the arthroscopic treatment of peripatellar fibrosis was found to be unpredictable. Debridement of the offending soft tissue did not necessarily guarantee a good result. Arthroscopic management of peripatellar fibrosis is recommended; however, limited and specific surgical goals should be established prior to intervention.