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Broken blade in the knee: A complication of arthroscopic meniscectomy
Miroslav Milankov1, Dragan Savic, Natasa Miljkovic
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Institute of Surgery, Clinical Center, Medical School, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Yugoslavia. milankom@eunet.yu
Abstract:
Arthroscopic surgery has a very low incidence of intraoperative complications. However, while the authors were using a No. 11 blade to resect the anterior horn of a meniscus, the blade broke and the fragment flew into the posterior knee compartment. The only way to remove it was to make an incision over the popliteal area. We describe this complication to show that improvisation and use of inappropriate surgical instruments can lead to serious problems and the failure of arthroscopic procedures.
Insights
A surgical blade broke during arthroscopic knee surgery, necessitating an open incision for removal. This highlights risks associated with improvising with inappropriate surgical instruments in arthroscopy.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Arthroscopic surgery is known for its low complication rates.
- Standard surgical instruments are designed for specific procedures.
Observation:
- A No. 11 blade fractured during meniscus resection.
- The blade fragment migrated to the posterior knee compartment.
Findings:
- Improper instrument use led to a serious intraoperative complication.
- Arthroscopic procedure failure occurred due to the complication.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical importance of using appropriate, well-maintained surgical instruments.
- Demonstrates potential risks of improvisation and instrument failure in arthroscopic knee surgery.