Arthroscopic Lysis of Arthrofibrosis and Manipulation After Knee Surgery

Introduction Arthrofibrosis is a well-known knee surgery complication. Optimal treatment of postoperative knee arthrofibrosis is very important. Arthroscopic lysis and manipulation are often effective. We evaluated the indications for and the utility of arthroscopic lysis and knee manipulation. Methods Ten patients (10 knees) underwent arthroscopic lysis of arthrofibrosis and knee manipulation. The follow-up evaluation included a clinical assessment. The mean follow-up time was 3.3 ± 1.2 months (from 2 to 6 months). Results The mean final gained arc of motion was 35.2°± 14.4°. The mean preoperative Lysholm score was 73.5 ± 2.5. The mean postoperative score was 90.5 ± 9.5. At the time of the initial surgery, the ROM tended to be lower in patients who had undergone surgery for > 6 months prior. Conclusion Final ROM outcomes were better in cases within 6 months of the initial surgery than in cases over 6 months. Arthroscopic lysis and manipulation for postoperative arthrofibrosis of the knee should be performed as early as possible, within 6 months of the initial surgery.