Arthrofibrosis of the Knee

Abstract

Arthrofibrosis is the abnormal proliferation of fibrous tissue in a joint with an unclear etiopathogenesis that leads to loss of motion, pain, muscle weakness, swelling, and functional limitation. The incidence of knee arthrofibrosis varies from 0 % to 57 % depending on the severity of injury. In the knee, arthrofibrosis may present as a localized form (cyclops lesion, infrapatellar contracture syndrome, patellar clunk syndrome, localized intra-articular scarring) or it may present as a generalized stiffness. A thorough patient history and a systematic evaluation of the knee are vital. The initial treatment is aggressive physical therapy. Arthroscopic debridement combined with manipulation under anesthesia is preferred after 6 weeks of failed conservative treatment. A comprehensive arthroscopic arthrolysis and careful postoperative rehabilitation are the hallmarks for successful outcomes.