[Complications of arthroscopy. A review of 3714 cases (author's transl)]

This review is drawn from a total of 3,714 knee arthroscopies carried out on patients from six clinics. The diagnostic value of arthroscopy at this site is established for it can improve prognostication, prevention and treatment of derangements of the knee. The complications of the procedure, both theoretical and in practice, have been considered by subdividing them into four groups. Firstly, the infection rate following arthroscopy alone was nil. Secondly, minor articular cartilage damage attributable to the instrument occurred in just over 2% of cases. This complication is more common when the technique is first being learned and is usually avoidable when experience has been gained. Thirdly, complications of a general nature included four cases of subcutaneous emphysema produced by the insufflation of gas, and 22 instances of an allergic skin reaction to the disinfectant preparation. Finally, failures in the technique itself resulted from the instrument bending or breaking when negotiating the condyles. This occurred on 26 occasions. In a further seven instances the fat pad was entered and distended in error, thus preventing examination of the joint. Overall, the complication rate was acceptable low and confirmed that arthroscopy can be safely applied clinically.