Diagnostic arthroscopy of the knee joint: comparison of the accuracy of physical examination, contrast arthrography and arthroscopy.

A group of 474 patients was retrospectively studied to assess the value of physical examination, arthrography and arthroscopy in the diagnosis of knee pathology. In 54% of cases, the correct clinical diagnosis was made from the patient's history, physical examination and standard radiology. The diagnosis at arthrography, especially in chondropathy and synovitis, appeared to be unreliable (only 46% corresponded to the definitive diagnosis). Contrast-arthrography of the knee joint is an invasive technique which provides relatively little extra (reliable) information, and is therefore not suitable as a standard procedure. Diagnostic arthroscopy is a superior and safe technique. Apart from the essential clinical assessment of patients with acute or chronic knee complaints (patient history, physical examination and standard radiology), there is a wide range of indications for diagnostic arthroscopy.