Minimally invasive posterior knee release

Abstract

Background: Management of knee stiffness remains a subject of debate among orthopedic surgeons. There is no gain saying that restoration of knee function greatly improves quality of life. Posterior approach offers an excellent view of underlying causes of knee stiffness. Overall improvement in surgical approach as well as a better understanding of knee anatomy has paved way to minimally invasive surgery. Some authors suggest a posterior release as a complement to knee arthroscopy. The following study reports a significant improvement in knee function after posterior minimally invasive knee arthrolysis. The authors intend by means of the present study and relevant literature to highlight the indications, advantages and limitations of this approach. Methods: Our prospective study involving eight patients presenting knee stiffness in flexion. They are treated by modified minimally invasive Trickey approach. Data was analyzed using IBM software SPSS version 2015. Results: The latest range of motion at follow-up mean was 0.2 to 105 degrees and postoperative Lysholm-Tegner score mean was 88. Conclusion: Our study suggests a safe and effective procedure for posterior knee release and the management of knee stiffness.

Arthroscopic Posterior Capsulotomy for Knee Flexion Contracture Using a Spinal Needle

“… 10 A variety of open and arthroscopic posterior capsulotomy techniques have been described. 3 , 5 , 12 , 13 , 14 The purpose of this Technical Note is to present a safe and effective percutaneous technique for arthroscopic posteromedial and posterolateral capsular release using a spinal needle for the treatment of knee flexion contracture.…”