Short-term Clinical and Functional Outcomes Following Arthroscopic Debridement and Lavage in Early to Moderate Knee Osteoarthritis: a Prospective Longitudinal Study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: A common disease affecting degenerative joints that reduces mobility and quality of life is knee osteoarthritis (OA). Although its effectiveness is still up for discussion, arthroscopic debridement and lavage have been suggested as an intermediate surgical option for patients with early to moderate OA who are suffering persistent mechanical symptoms that are not improving with conservative treatment. To assess the immediate clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes of arthroscopic debridement and lavage in patients with Kellgren-Lawrence Grade I–III knee OA who are not responding to non-operative therapy. Over 18 months, prospective longitudinal research was carried out at a tertiary care facility. Lavage and arthroscopic debridement were performed on 35 individuals. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and the Knee Society Score (KSS) were used to evaluate clinical results. Radiological alterations in osteophytes and joint space were assessed. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and paired t-tests were used in the statistical analysis; p < 0.05 was deemed significant. Postoperative improvements in VAS (6.4 to 2.8), KSS (58 to 82), and WOMAC (74 to 48) ratings were substantial (p < 0.001). Radiographs showed reduced osteophyte and increased joint space, especially in KL Grade I–II patients. Only modest, self-limiting occurrences were observed, and the risk of complications was minimal, for certain individuals with early to moderate knee OA and mechanical symptoms, arthroscopic debridement and lavage provide safe, efficient temporary pain alleviation and enhanced functionality. In KL Grades I–II, the operation is most helpful, and in properly selected patients, it should be viewed as a bridge measure before arthroplasty.
DOI: 10.53555/htfwsp39
Authors: Dr Aniket Koley, Dr Gopinath Maiti, Dr Arumoy Bhuimali, Dr Aniruddha Mondal, Dr Satyaki Dandi, Dr Subhamoy Majee, Dr. Shreyans Agrawal
Institution: Narayan Medical College and Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Rheumatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4411353153