The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery

The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery

Combination of Arthroscopic Arthrolysis and Minimal Invasive Quadricepsplasty for Management of Stiff Knee: Our Experience

Document Type : RESEARCH PAPER

Authors
Bushu Harna 1
Shivali Arya 2
Dinesh Sandal 3
1 Aero homes, Zirakpur, Punjab, India
2 Lifetree clinic, Zirakpur, Panjab, India
3 Neelam Hospital, Rajpura, Panjab, India
10.22038/abjs.2025.91373.4138
Abstract
Objectives: Knee stiffness following surgeries around the knee significantly limits functional mobility and quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of arthroscopic arthrolysis combined with minimally invasive quadricepsplasty in the management of post-surgical knee stiffness
Methods: This retrospective study included 14 patients with knee stiffness persisting for at least one year despite implant removal. All patients underwent arthroscopic arthrolysis with modified quadricepsplasty through a small midline incision over the superior pole of the patella. The procedure involved isolation of the rectus femoris, release of medial and lateral adhesions, and elevation of the quadriceps from the underlying femur. A standardized aggressive postoperative rehabilitation protocol was followed. Patients were evaluated for demographic details, knee range of motion (ROM), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Knee Society Score (KSS) at a minimum follow-up of 12 months.
Results: The mean patient age was 34.7 ± 5.2 years, with a mean duration of knee stiffness of 1.4 ± 0.6 years from the index injury. Mean preoperative extension lag was 15° and flexion was 50°, which improved significantly to 3° and 115°, respectively, at final follow-up. Significant postoperative improvements were observed in both KSS and VAS scores. According to Judet’s criteria, most patients achieved excellent outcomes. One patient developed minor wound complications, which resolved with conservative management.
Conclusion: Arthroscopic arthrolysis combined with minimally invasive quadricepsplasty is an effective and safe treatment for post-surgical knee stiffness, providing significant improvements in knee ROM, pain relief, and functional outcomes with minimal complications.
        Level of evidence: IV
Keywords
Arthroscopic arthrolysis, Knee movement
Minimal invasive
Quadricepsplasty
Stiff knee
Subjects
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The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery
Volume 14, Issue 5
May 2026
Pages 356-362

  • Receive Date 01 October 2025
  • Revise Date 07 January 2026
  • Accept Date 16 December 2025