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[The value of X-ray examinations for elective arthroscopy]
P J Tordrup1, E R Larsen, J S Mortensen
1Ortopaedkirurgisk afdeling, Viborg Sygehus.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|June 27, 1994
Summary
Routine preoperative X-rays are unnecessary before elective knee arthroscopy if clinical signs are absent. This study found X-rays often missed arthroscopic findings like osteochondritis dissecans and free bodies.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Preoperative imaging is common before knee arthroscopy.
- The diagnostic yield of routine X-rays for specific knee conditions is debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of preoperative X-rays compared to arthroscopic findings in elective knee arthroscopy.
- To determine if routine X-ray examinations are necessary prior to knee arthroscopy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 327 elective knee arthroscopies performed in 1990.
- Comparison of preoperative X-ray diagnoses with arthroscopic findings.
- Radiographs evaluated by an experienced radiologist.
Main Results:
- X-rays diagnosed arthrosis in 35 cases, confirmed arthroscopically in 25.
- Arthroscopy revealed osteochondritis dissecans in 10 knees; X-rays detected only 4.
- Arthroscopy identified 6 cases of free bodies; X-rays detected only 3.
Conclusions:
- Routine preoperative X-ray examinations are often unnecessary for elective knee arthroscopy.
- X-rays have limited sensitivity for detecting osteochondritis dissecans and free bodies.
- Clinical assessment is sufficient when specific X-ray findings are not suspected.