Arthroscopic evaluation of refractory knee pain

The aim of this study was to evaluate the conditions of the articular cartilage and other intra-articular structures in patients with refractory knee pain. A total of 50 patients were taken up for this study based on specific inclusion criteria. Arthroscopy was done using a 30 degrees scope and was introduced most commonly via anterolateral approach after a thorough clinical and radiological evaluation of the affected joint. It was observed that majority (76%) had grade I articular lesion and 10% had grade IV lesion. Arthroscopically 78% of the patients had a meniscal tear while 12% had cyst of lateral meniscus while clinically, meniscal tear was present in 22% of the cases and cyst in 2% cases only. Arthroscopy also detects other intra-articular lesions, which are missed clinically, thus modifying further management of the patient.