[Current aspects of knee joint arthrolysis].

Recently we observed a change of problems with patients suffering from impaired movement of the knee joint. Among 24 arthrolysis performed in 16 male and 7 female patients from 1983 to 1987, ligamentous injuries had preceded in 13 cases. Extension deficits of more than 10 degrees were the leading problem in 10 cases, flexion deficits in 5 cases, combined deficits in 8 cases. Combined intra- and extraarticular procedures were necessary in most operations. Posteromedial capsular dissection was successfully performed in 12 cases to improve extension. 23 results were evaluated with an average interval of 39 months after operation. Improvement of motion averaged to 62%. Careful preoperative evaluation, systematic operative technique and intensive postoperative physiotherapy are of equal importance to obtain satisfying results with knee joint arthrolysis.