Factors associated with poor results following arthroscopic subcutaneous lateral retinacular release.

Forty-eight patients who underwent 55 arthroscopic subcutaneous lateral retinacular releases with an average follow-up period of 15 months were examined. Advancing age, postoperative hemarthrosis, incomplete release, incomplete quadriceps rehabilitation, and severe ligamentous laxity are factors that may contribute to a poor result following this procedure. In patient selection the increased risk of poor results in patients older than 30 years of age and in those with generalized ligamentous laxity must be considered. During surgery, release of the tight lateral tether is essential to produce a positive "tilt" sign, signifying complete release. Although postoperative hemarthrosis is usually associated with immediate morbidity, it can ultimately lead to poor results. Incomplete or incorrect quadriceps rehabilitation is almost always associated with a compromised result.