Arthroscopic Release of Severe Flexion- and Extension-Impeding Knee Stiffness With Inaccessible Joint

Abstract

Knee stiffness with severe flexion and extension impediment is a common clinical condition that challenges orthopaedic surgeons. Arthroscopic release techniques have been reported, mostly for slight extension or flexion deficits. However, for severe flexion- and extension-impeding knee stiffness, especially when there is no intra-articular space in which to place the arthroscope, effective arthroscopic release techniques are still being pursued. We introduce a systemic arthroscopic release technique to address this special condition, in which a trans–infrapatellar fat pad release technique is developed to obtain access to the joint and to perform intra-articular and periarticular release, as well as scar tissue removal. One critical point of this technique is to create the posteromedial and posterolateral portals to re-establish the posterior compartments, remove the fibrotic posterior septum, and release the posterior capsule. This technique combines almost all related arthroscopic techniques in the treatment of knee stiffness. We consider that the introduction of this technique will provide a useful guide when surgical release is selected for this special condition.