A case of synovial chondromatosis of knee joint treated with total knee arthroplasty

Abstract

Synovial Chondromatosis is a rare disease of the synovial membrane characterised by formation of multiple loose bodies in a joint. Knee is the most common joint to be affected by this disease. Though, this disease can be managed by synovectomy and removal of loose bodies with a favourable functional outcome but in some cases where there is damage of articular cartilage, simple synovectomy might not be sufficient. Here, we present a case of right knee pain in a 53 year old male since 4 years with a established diagnosis of synovial chondromatosis. No other joint was affected. Pain was associated with a fixed flexion deformity and restriction of knee range of motion and multiple slipping bodies. Radiography showed multiple loose bodies in the tibio-femoral as well as in patello femoral compartment. MRI of knee revealed several damaged areas in the knee articular surface. As a result, decision was taken to perform total knee arthroplasty. Intraoperatively all the loose bodies were removed along with the affected synovium and arthroplasty was done. Patient was discharged in fourth post operative day with proper instructions and was called for follow up at 1 month, 3 month, 6 month, 1 year. Functional outcome was assessed by Tegner Lysholm knee score, Knee Society score and Visual Assessment Scale.