Arthroscopic retrieval of a large foreign body: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Background: We report the removal of a large metallic foreign body and review the relevant literature. Methods: A 28 y old woman was admitted with left knee swelling, pain, and limitation of activity resulting from an accident 7 d earlier. Radiography revealed a 3 × 1 cm foreign body at the mid-tibial plateau. As the foreign body may have been metallic, it was not possible to perform magnetic resonance imaging to determine whether damage to the cruciate ligaments was present. Finally, the foreign body was retrieved. Results: A 3 × 4 × 5 cm triangular broken knife blade was removed from the joint cavity. We excised the lateral meniscus, which had been damaged by the foreign body, and debrided the hyperplastic synovial membrane. Recovery was favorable with no complications. The patient was followed up at 6 months after surgery. Conclusions: While foreign bodies in the knee are not uncommon, the presence of a large object is rare. When foreign bodies are small, most can be removed arthroscopically with a minimum of difficulty. In contrast, large foreign bodies within the knee joint cavity require an incision to open the joint for adequate exposure and removal of the object. Such a procedure can result in severe complications, such as infections and joint deformities. The decision to use one or the other approach requires careful consideration regarding the condition of the patient along with the skill, knowledge, and experience of the health care team.