Stiffness of the knee--mixed arthroscopic and subcutaneous technique: results of 67 cases.

This study is an analysis of the treatment for mixed-cause stiffness of the knee: intraarticular and extraarticular. We examined 67 patients. The cause of stiffness was mostly ligamentous surgery, found in 51 cases (76%). Preoperative range of motion was 11 degrees extension and 89 degrees flexion. In 14 cases extension was complete. In the remaining 53 cases, extension was limited. Results achieved with arthroscopic arthrolysis were generally excellent. The ideal time to perform the operation is within the first 9 months after injury. The best results were obtained in the 7th month. Results deteriorate notably after 1 year. The age of the patient does not seem to affect the end result.