Arthroscopic versus open debridement of penetrating knee joint injuries.

Arthroscopic debridement of penetrating knee joint injuries has become a common treatment method. A comparative study was undertaken to compare this method with open joint debridement. Fourteen penetrating knee joint injuries (fourteen patients) were treated by arthroscopic examination and debridement and were compared to sixteen penetrating knee joint injuries (fifteen patients) treated by open debridement. There were no resultant infections or operative complications in either group. Of note, the arthroscopic debridement group had a shorter postoperative hospital stay [mean of 1.6 days compared to a mean of 2.6 days in the open debridement group (p < 0.02)], a significant incidence of additional intra-articular injuries detected (p < 0.01), less postoperative pain, and a superior cosmetic result. We conclude that arthroscopic debridement of penetrating knee joint injuries is a safe and effective method of treatment, providing additional diagnostic information while minimizing morbidity and reducing hospital stay.