Arthroscopic debridement for osteoarthritis of the knee: predictors of patient satisfaction

A retrospective review of 204 knees with osteoarthritis debrided arthroscopically was carried out to determine possible predictors of patient satisfaction with the outcome of their procedure. Knees were divided into three groups based upon the alignment on a standing anteroposterior radiograph in extension: group I, 0 degrees; group II, <5 degrees ; and group III, >5 degrees. Each group was further subdivided as to whether the patients were better (satisfied), unchanged, or worse (unsatisfied) with their operation at the time of review. There were 81 men (42.6%) and 109 women (57.4%) ranging in age from 30 to 88 years (mean, 62.1 years). Follow-up ranged from 2 to 15 years (mean, 7.4 years). Overall, 63.2% (129 knees) were better, 21.1% (43 knees) were unchanged, and 15.7% (32 knees) were worse after surgery. Further surgery was needed in 54 knees (26.5%). Regarding satisfactory results, group I (n = 57) had 84.2%, group II (n = 102) had 67.6%, and group III (n = 45) had 26.7%. Based on statistical analysis, it is concluded that patients with less deviated axes do better than those with large angulations, prior surgery predisposes to poorer results, and while the age was lower in the better and unchanged groups, it seems to be secondary in importance to angular deformity. Arthroscopic debridement is a successful palliative, temporizing treatment for the osteoarthritic knee.