2021 Annual Meeting Knee Access Pass-Is there a role for Arthroscopic Debridement?

Is there a role for Arthroscopic Debridement?

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Armando Vidal discusses the role of arthroscopic debridement in knee osteoarthritis (OA). Landmark studies, like Moseley's sham surgery trial, showed no benefit of arthroscopy for OA in older populations, leading to skepticism about its use. However, Vidal argues that while knee OA alone isn't an indication for arthroscopy, it isn't a contraindication either, especially in younger, mild-to-moderate OA patients with specific issues like meniscal tears or loose bodies causing mechanical symptoms. He emphasizes careful patient selection, noting that arthroscopy can benefit those who fail conservative treatments. The challenge remains identifying appropriate candidates to justify and maintain this treatment option.

Asset Caption

Dr. Armando Vidal | Osteoarthritis and the Aging Athlete

Keywords

arthroscopic debridement

knee osteoarthritis

meniscal tears

mechanical symptoms

patient selection