Efficacy Analysis of Arthroscopic Treatment of Synovial Chondromatosis of the Knee: A Retrospective Study of More Than Five Years

Abstract

Objective: The synovial chondromatosis is an exceptionally rare benign condition, predominantly found in the knee joint, and can result in pain, restricted mobility, and potential irreversible damage to the joint and cartilage. Despite the utilization of arthroscopic techniques in the surgical management of synovial chondromatosis, there remains a paucity of long-term assessment regarding its efficacy. The main objectives of this study include: (i) investigating the long-term efficacy of arthroscopic surgery in patients with knee synovial chondromatosis;(ii) identifying factors influencing functional improvement in patients post-surgery function.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of all patients with synovial chondromatosis of the knee who underwent arthroscopic synovectomy and loose body removal at our institution between June 2009 and January 2020. The follow-up period for all cases exceeded 5 years. Data collection included demographic details, clinical efficacy indicators(VAS, KOOS, WOMAC, etc.), imaging findings, and subjective satisfaction of patients with surgical outcomes. Data analysis selected t-tests, ANOVA, non-parametric tests, and correlation methods based on normality test results.

Results: We enrolled a total of 13 patients, including 4 men and 9 women, with a mean follow-up of 113.15 ± 30.45 months (range 61–145). There were no postoperative complications, recurrence, or malignant transformation in all patients, and the VAS scores, KOOS scores, WOMAC scores, and Lysholm scores of all patients were significantly improved at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 5 years, and the last follow-up (p < 0.05). However, one patient experienced osteoarthritis progression, necessitating arthroplasty.

Conclusion: This retrospective study demonstrated that arthroscopic treatment for knee synovial chondromatosis is effective and safe. It leads to immediate post-intervention improvement in symptoms and function, with sustained long-term benefits.

Keywords

arthroscopy / clinical efficacy outcomes / long-term outcome / osteoarthritis / synovial chondromatosis

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