Risberg MA
What is the effect of the addition of arthroscopy to physiotherapy and medication in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee? 168 adults with idiopathic or secondary moderate-to-severe oa of the knee (Grade 2, 3, or 4 radiographic severity on the modified Kellgren-Lawrence classification) either underwent arthroscopy within 6 weeks after randomisation and a standard physiotherapy and medication regimen was initiated within 7 days after surgery. The control group initiated the same physiotherapy and medication regimen at an equivalent time.
The results suggested that the addition of arthroscopy to a regimen of physiotherapy and medication does not improve physical function, pain, or health-related quality of life in patients with moderate-to-severe OA of the knee.
Aust J Physiother. 2009;55(2):137