O1274 FUNCTIONAL AND CLINICAL OUTCOME FOLLOWING ARTHROSCOPY AND LATERAL RELEASE IN PATELLA DISORDERS – A PROSPECTIVE CLINICAL STUDY

Abstract

Aims: Prospective study to evaluate the results of arthroscopic lateral release in patient’s with patella disorders, who failed conservative treatment. Patient’s symptoms, functional status, return to work and sports activity were assessed post-operatively. Methods: During 1997–1999, 52 arthoscopy and lateral release in 39 patients were reviewed by an independent observer. Questionnaires containing subjective pain evaluation, visual analogue pain scale (VAS), and disability at work and sports were used to assess pre and postoperatively. Results: 52 knees were evaluated at an average follow up of 30 months (range: 8–44 months). 37 (71%) of knees has Chondromalacia patella, 5 (10%) had anterior knee pain, 4(7.6%) knees had recurrent dislocation of patella and six (11.5%) knees had patellofemoral degenerative disease.39 (75%) of knees were pain free following surgery. The mean pain score improved from 7.7 pre-op to 3.4 post-op at follow up (P< 0.005). Seventy (70) percent had good to excellent results as per the Lysholm Knee score (P< 0.005). Subjectively 85% felt that the operation was worth while and 77% would have it again in similar circumstances. Two knees had mild superficial infection and 1(2%) patient had a DVT following the procedure. Conclusions: With appropriate patient selection and a good surgical technique arthroscopic lateral release proves to be a very good surgical procedure for patella disorders with minimal complication yielding good result with high patient satisfaction.