The use of electrosurgery for arthroscopic subcutaneous lateral release.

49 patients underwent subcutaneous lateral retinacular release for pa tell of emo ral malalignment syndromes by a new technique utilizing the arthroscope and electrocautery. In this technique, the tight lateral patellofemoral ligament and lateral retinaculum are transected with the electrocautery under direct arthroscopic visualization. It is possible to directly observe the progress and completeness of the release, and to cauterize any bleeding vessels sequentially as they are transected. The procedure is simple, quick, and has a low 3.8% rate of complication. In the postoperative period pain is minimal, requiring only non-narcotic medication. Patient hospital stay is reduced, with dismissal usually one day after surgery. Knee motion as well as quadriceps control are rapidly recovered. One week after surgery 90% of patients gained 90° or more of flexion, and the remaining patients achieved this by the second week after surgery.