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Plica: Pathologic or Not?
1Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Rootstown.
The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Plica synovialis are normal knee folds, but can cause disabling symptoms when they become pathologic. This review defines the clinical syndrome and outlines management options for this uncommon knee condition.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Knee Anatomy
- Embryology
Background:
- Plica synovialis are normal synovial folds within the human knee joint.
- These structures are remnants of embryonic mesenchymal tissue or septa.
- Their role in causing knee symptoms is debated in orthopaedics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the clinical syndrome associated with pathologic plica synovialis.
- To describe the arthroscopic appearance of symptomatic plica.
- To outline management strategies for this condition.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on plica synovialis.
- Description of arthroscopic findings in pathologic plica.
- Synthesis of nonsurgical and surgical treatment approaches.
Main Results:
- Pathologic plica synovialis can cause disabling knee symptoms.
- Arthroscopic inspection reveals characteristic appearances of symptomatic plica.
- Management involves both conservative and operative interventions.
Conclusions:
- Controversy exists regarding the pathologic potential of plica synovialis.
- Recognition of the clinical syndrome is crucial for diagnosis.
- A multimodal approach to management is often required.