Endoscopy of the deep infrapatellar bursa

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Knee Arthroscopy

Background:

• Endoscopic techniques are increasingly used for exploring extraarticular cavities.
• The deep infrapatellar bursa of the knee presents a new frontier for minimally invasive exploration and surgery.
• Accessing this area post-knee arthroscopy causes minimal additional tissue damage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of endoscopic procedures on the deep infrapatellar bursa.
• To explore endoscopic treatment for Osgood Schlatter's disease, infrapatellar tendinopathy, and bursitis.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of endoscopic decompression of the deep infrapatellar tendon recess.

Main Methods:

• Endoscopic exploration and surgical intervention of the deep infrapatellar bursa.
• Procedures included bursa resection, shaving of the distal patellar tendon, and removal of ossicles/osteophytes.
• Application in three cases of Osgood Schlatter's disease.

Main Results:

• Successful endoscopic decompression of the deep infrapatellar tendon recess was achieved in three cases of Osgood Schlatter's disease.
• The endoscopic approach allows for targeted treatment of pathologies within the infrapatellar recess.
• No major complications were reported in the treated cases.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopy of the deep infrapatellar bursa is a viable minimally invasive surgical option.
• This technique is effective for treating Osgood Schlatter's disease, infrapatellar tendinopathy, and bursitis.
• Potential risks include iatrogenic damage to the patellar insertion area, necessitating careful surgical technique.