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Arthroscopy of the knee under general anesthesia: an aid to the determination of ligamentous instability

Martin E. Blazina, M.D.

James M. Fox, M.D.

Wilson Del Pizzo, M.D.

During a 34-month period (March 1976 through December 1978), 790 patients underwent arthroscopic examination of the knee under general anesthesia. Preoperative assessment of ligamentous instability was compared with the ligamentous examination while under general anesthesia. Eight percent of the patients with no preoperative instability first demonstrated ligamentous instability under general anesthesia. Thirty-six percent of the patients with preoperative instability and 27% of the patients with previous surgery had either an increased grade or additional component of instability found when ex amined under general anesthesia. Information gained from arthroscopy without a comprehensive ligament examination under anesthesia may result in an incomplete diagnosis and ineffective treatment. Patients at high risk include those with acute injuries, preoperative instability, or previous surgery.