Arthroscopy in the evaluation of operative treatment of osteochondrosis dissecans.

In an early stage of postoperative evaluation of intra-articular surgery, as in osteochondrosis dissecans, arthroscopic examination is indispensable. In order to compare the results of different cases, a classification is necessary. The arthroscopic grading system presented is valuable for assessing degeneration of the three knee compartments. Early arthroscopic evaluation for follow-up can be used to classify postoperative complications that are not visable radiologically and are not severe enough to justify re-exploration. After follow-up examination with arthroscopy, advice to the patient may halt the progression of deterioration. Further study of the different treatments can help in formulating a plan of management of osteochondrosis dissecans.