[Lipoma arborescens of the knee: contribution of x-ray computed tomography. Apropos of a new case].

The authors report a case of a synovial lipoma of the knee in a 40 years old man who suffered from chronic instability of the right knee associated to an extensive joint swelling and recurrent hydarthrosis. Ultrasonography and arthrography showed a synovial process and the computerized tomography showed an inhomogeneous low density due to its fat content suggesting a synovial lipoma arborescens of the knee. Final diagnosis was confirmed by histological examination of the arthroscopic biopsy. The authors discuss, through out their case and a review of the literature, modern investigation findings and indication for surgical treatment of this disease.