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Arthroscopy was performed during the acute phase of injury in 84 knees (79 patients). A satisfactory view of the joint was obtained in all cases, and no complications occurred. About two-thirds of the patients had injuries associated with violent rotation-abduction. In about one-third of the patients operation could be avoided. In cases with haemarthrosis, serious ligament injury was present in nearly 50 per cent. Complete arthroscopy was associated with few diagnostic errors. Clinical examination often led to uncertain or incorrect diagnosis even when performed under anaesthesia by experienced surgeons. In contrast, arthroscopy led to rapid diagnosis and treatment, thus shortening the period of disability. We recommend arthroscopy in acute knee injuries, but the examination must be performed by an experienced arthroscopist.

In a series of 356 arthroscopies of the knee joint 127 patients were explored by arthrotomy. A Storz arthroscope was introduced through the patellar tendon, and we alternated between the 30 degrees and 70 degrees optical systems in the same trocar sheath. The 30 degrees system was used for inspection of the superior, anterior, medial and lateral compartments, and to lead the tip of the instrument to the posterior part of the joint. The 70 degrees telescope was then used, providing a good view of the posterior cruciate ligament and the posterior horn of the menisci and their attachments. It also allowed direct inspection of the posterolateral and posteromedial compartments. No major diagnostic error was made by the arthroscopist in the 127 patients operated on as a result of the findings of endoscopic examination. Arthroscopy with the use of both 30 degrees and 70 degrees telescopes at the same session gives high diagnostic accuracy and detailed, exact pre-operative diagnosis.

At 1-year follow-up, the increase in Qmax was smaller in the ILC subjects than in the TURP patients. The ILC subjects had comparatively more postoperative urinary tract infections and more prolonged postoperative catheterization than the TURP patients.

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