Synovial plica of the elbow and its clinical relevance

A synovial plica (fold) is normal anatomic finding, and occurs in 86–100% of cases; however, symptomatic plica is much less common (7.2–8.7% of all elbow arthroscopies). Synovial plica syndrome is a painful elbow condition related to symptomatic synovial plica. Synovial plica syndrome is diagnosed by clinical examination (lateral elbow pain) commonly accompanied by local tenderness, pain at terminal extension and/or painful snapping. Synovial plica syndrome may be mimicked by other elbow conditions, commonly tennis elbow, loose bodies, and degenerative arthritis. Magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound scan may support diagnosis in correlation with clinical findings, but symptomatic plica may also be diagnosed as unexpected during elbow arthroscopy. The arthroscopic resection is effective and safe if conservative treatment fails. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:549-557. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.200027

Plica syndrome after medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction: a case report

A 16-year-old female with a history of left recurrent patellar dislocation underwent medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction surgery. Two months postoperatively, the patient presented with medial patellar pain. Left medial plica syndrome was suspected, and we performed a partial arthroscopic resection of the medial synovial plica. The symptom gradually improved after surgery. To the best of our knowledge, there are no reports that discuss the relationship between postoperative pain of MPFL reconstruction and synovial plica as found in this case report. Surgeons should be aware of the possibility that asymptomatic synovial plica could become symptomatic.

Standing Needle Arthroscopy of the Metacarpophalangeal and Metatarsophalangeal Joint for Removal of Dorsal Osteochondral Fragmentation in 21 Horses

Objective The aim of this study was to report the technique, experience and outcome of standing arthroscopic removal of dorsal osteochondral fragmentation of the metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joint using a 1.2-mm needle arthroscope. Study Design This was a prospective clinical study. Materials and Methods All horses referred for standing arthroscopic removal of dorsoproximal first phalanx fragments or fragments embedded in the distal aspect of the synovial plica were included. Relevant information from the cases was recorded. Follow-up was obtained by a telephone questionnaire. Results Twenty-one horses with a mean age of 4.5 years old were included. Osteochondral fragments removed were from the proximal margin of first phalanx in 18 horses (24 joints), in the synovial plica in 2 horses (2 joints) or free-floating fragment in 1 horse (1 joint). Fifteen out of twenty-one horses were unilaterally affected and 6/21 bilaterally. Fifteen out of twenty-seven affected joints were forelimbs and 12/27 hindlimbs. All articular structures within the dorsal recess of the joint were visible. The arthroscope was deemed easy to use and manoeuvre. Only minor complications occurred during the procedure. Surgery time was 15 to 20 minutes for most patients. Conclusions All fragments were successfully removed and needle arthroscopy allowed a thorough evaluation of the dorsal aspect of the joint. The technique offers an alternative for standing fetlock arthroscopy for surgeons concerned about equipment damage or portability.

Synovial Plica Syndrome of the Knee: A Commonly Overlooked Cause of Anterior Knee Pain

Synovial plica syndrome (SPS) occurs in the knee, when an otherwise normal structure becomes a source of pain due to injury or overuse. Patients may present to general practitioners, physiotherapists, or surgeons with anterior knee pain with or without mechanical symptoms, and the diagnosis can sometimes be difficult. Several studies have examined the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of SPS. We review these resources to provide an evidence-based guide to the diagnosis and treatment of SPS of the knee.