Recurrent hemarthrosis after total knee arthroplasty caused by the impingement of a remnant lateral meniscus: a case report

Knee. 2014 Mar;21(2):617-9. doi: 10.1016/j.knee.2013.10.012. Epub 2013 Oct 31.

Abstract

A case of recurrent hemarthrosis initially presenting after the fifth postoperative month is described. Because of recurrent pain and swelling, the patient underwent an arthroscopy 14 months after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A remnant posterior lateral meniscus was found to be impinged between the femoral component and the tibial liner, and there was oozing from the hypertrophied synovium around the remnant meniscus. The remnant meniscus and the synovium were carefully cauterized and completely excised. Following the arthroscopy, hemarthrosis has not recurred. A remnant lateral meniscus may be a cause of recurrent hemarthrosis after TKA. Accordingly, in cases of recurrent hemarthrosis after TKA, exploration by arthroscopy should be considered.

Keywords: Arthroscopy; Hemarthrosis; Knee arthroplasty; Remnant meniscus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee / adverse effects*
  • Arthroscopy
  • Electrocoagulation
  • Female
  • Hemarthrosis / etiology*
  • Hemarthrosis / surgery
  • Humans
  • Menisci, Tibial / surgery*
  • Recurrence
  • Synovectomy