Correlation of the Findings of Clinical Examination and Arthroscopy of Knee Joint under Local Anesthesia

Abstract

Objective: To study the correlation of the findings of clinical examination and arthroscopy of knee joint under local anesthesia

Study Design: Descriptive study

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in the Orthopaedic Department, Railway Hospital Islamabad and Ibn e Siena Hospital & Research Institute Multan from March 2008 to March 2010.

Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in 50 patients with some type of problems in the knee since March 2008 to March 2010. 40 (80%) patients were diagnosed clinically, but clinically diagnosis was totally correct in 25 (50%) patients while 15 (30%) patients had additional arthroscopic findings besides those diagnosed clinically.

Results: With the help of arthroscopy the diagnosis was improved to 94% that is near the international study of 90%. The clinical diagnosis was entirely incorrect in 7 (14%) cases. In these cases the clinical diagnosis was wrong but correct diagnosis was apparent at arthroscopy. So arthroscopy should be considered as a diagnostic aid to use in conjunction with a good history, complete physical examination and appropriate roentgenograms. A high degree of accuracy combined with low morbidity, has encouraged the use of arthroscopy to assist in diagnosis, to determine prognosis and to provide treatment.

Conclusion: Arthroscopy under local anesthesia is highly economical, having good patient’s acceptability and can be performed as a day case procedure. Meanwhile it is reliable, safe and well-tolerated alternative to conventional techniques to improve the diagnostic accuracy.