A method of arthroscopic surgery. Clinical evaluation of synovectomy with the electric resectoscope and removal of loose bodies in the knee joint

Abstract

The structure and function of the electric resectoscope have been discussed and the application to synovectomy and removal of loose bodies in the knee joint. Our clinical results have also been reported. The advantages and problems of synovectomy and arthroscopic surgery with the electric resectoscope as used in the knee joint are discussed, especially in comparison with conventional resection of the anterior two-thirds of the synovial membrane. For intra-articular use in the knee joint the electric resectoscope used for transurethral resection in urology was modified to perform synovectomy and arthroscopic surgery. Clinical folow-up observation indicated that synovectomy performed with the electric resectoscope produced results almost comparable with those of conventional synovectomy. Arthroscopic surgery with the electric resectoscope is a new method. It is performed through a small skin incision with fewer untoward effects. The operation is relatively painless and offers more rapid recovery after surgery. A few complications were noted by this method. None were serious. There were two epsiodes of infection during the early use of this technique.