Use of radiofrequency energy in knee during arthroscopic surgery

Objective To analyze the effect of radiofrequency energy in the knee during arthroscopic surgery.Methods Meniscectomy,synovectomy,resection and debridement of cruciate ligament stump,treatment of articular cartilage lesion and hemostasis with Arthrocare 2000 were performed in 1802 patients,total 1868 location of lesions in arthroscopic surgery of knee joint from August 2003 to February 2006.Results Radiofrequency coblation technology was effective for treatment of menisci injury,chondral lesions, debridement in operation reconstruction of cruciate ligament,tightening of the anterior cruciate ligament,solution of lateral retinaculum and resection of tumor.It had advantages of less injury,quick recovery and no influence on knee function.Seven cases had positive floating patella test after extensive synovectomy,one case had a small area of empyrosis and all cases were healing well soon. No case had severe complication,such as poor wound healing,infection,sensory disability and deep venous thrombosis.Conclusion Radiofrequency energy may become a safe and efficacious treatment option for disease of knee during arthroscopic surgery in the near future.