Arthroscopy and chondrocalcinosis.

Different pathogenetic factors have been associated with the development of chondrocalcinosis. Under normal conditions, previous degenerative meniscus changes with proliferation of "pseudochondrocytes" and chondrocalcinosis have been found coincidentally. Small fragments can be excised during arthroscopy for histological assessment of the developmental stages and localization of chondrocalcinosis. We investigated 3,350 specimens histologically and correlated the results with clinical data and data on previous trauma to establish the role of surgery or trauma in the induction or promotion of chondrocalcinosis. The findings allow us to draw the conclusion that contrary to previous study findings, chondrocalcinosis is a highly significant factor in posttraumatic and/or degenerative meniscal changes.