Arthroscopic Removal of Loose Bodies from the Knee

관절경을 이용한 슬관절 유리체 제거술

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the cause, size, number, nature and locaton of loose bodies in the knee joint and to describe the proper arthroscopic technique to remae the loose bodies according to the location of them. We retrospectively analysed thirty-three operations of arthroscopic removal of loose bodies from the knee. Eleven males and 22 females were included with average age of 38(range 7-71). Total number of removed loose bodies were more than sixty. The loose bodies were found most commonly at anterior intercondylar notch area. The most common associated pathology was degenerative arthritis. The most common size of loose bodies was in the range of 5mm to 10mm in diameter. The most common nature of loose bodies was osteochondral. The loose bodies located in suprapatellar pouch, medial gutter, lateral gutter. anterior intercondylar notch or posterior intercondylar notch were removed using standard portals such as anteromedial, anterolateral, superomedial and posteromedial portals. The removal of loose bodies located in upper portion of posteromedial or posterolateral compartment were greatly enhanced using posterior trans-septal portal. The proper portals for the visualization and removal of loose bodies were identified according to the location of loose bodies in the knee joint. More skill in the use of the arthroscope is required for the removal of loose bodies than for simple diagnostic arthroscopy.