Clinical judgement versus arthroscopy in diagnosing knee problems

ABSTRACT

A retrospective study to evaluate the accuracy of clinical diagnosis, based on arthroscopic examination in 120 symptomatic knee joints revealed an accuracy rate of 70.5% in medial meniscal injuries, 66.6% in lateral meniscal injuries, and 90% in anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Clinically unrecognized combined lesions were easily located, and false evaluation avoided. Besides, articular chondral changes accused for symptoms in an otherwise normal knee could be readily detected and evaluated arthroscopically. Accordingly, unnecessary arthrotomies were prevented and a well planned management was possible without suspect