Electrosurgery in arthroscopy.

Electrosurgery using high-frequency (HF) technique in arthroscopic operations has been used routinely in our hospital for 8 years. Main indications are meniscal resections, lateral release, plica cutting, and arthrolysis. The main instrument is a hook, which is insulated up to the tip and also cuts meniscal tissue. The cutting effect depends on the strength of the electrical current, the configuration of the hook-knife, and the cutting speed. The advantages of the electric knife over mechanical instruments are the ability to cut in all directions without resistance and easy manipulation within narrow joint spaces. Also, the necrotic depth of the meniscal cartilage is not excessive. Follow-up studies in 940 cases greater than 1 year after arthroscopic meniscal surgery did not show any significant difference in the results with or without use of the electric knife.