Arthroscopy and joint lavage

Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol. 2005 Jun;19(3):401-15. doi: 10.1016/j.berh.2004.11.007.

Abstract

Arthroscopy is used by rheumatologists for research purposes in cases with knee osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis. This chapter explains the technical characteristics of 'research arthroscopy' including the simplification of the procedure, video-recording, as well as risks and training. Lavage of the knee joint is proposed as a treatment procedure for osteoarthritis and inflammatory and septic arthritis. Tidal irrigation and the two-needle technique of lavage are described. In the absence of clear predictive factors for efficacy, the indications for these techniques are a matter of debate.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arthroscopy / methods*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Humans
  • Joint Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Joints / pathology
  • Joints / surgery
  • Therapeutic Irrigation / methods*