Abstract des Autors

In this study the results of the arthroscopic treatment of stage 3 Jumper's knees were reviewed retrospectively. In this technique pathologic tissue at the insertion of the patellar ligament is resected by means of a shaver. A total of 24 knees in 21 patients were evaluated clinically. The mean follow up time was 32 months (range: 1-6 years). All patients were active sportsmen with persistent pain after conservative treatment. The results were good or excellent in 16 knees (67%) with no or mild pain during sports and full return to preinjury level of activity. In 8 knees (33%) the activity level was lower than before the injury; 75% of these knees showed patellofemoral chondromalacia: this is a significantly higher part than in the group with good results (25%). We concluded that the results are satisfying in two thirds of the operated patients. Furthermore it seems that the coexistence of patellofemoral chondromalacia adversely affects the results. Verf.-Referat