From the Research
Treatment for a loose body in the knee typically involves surgical removal through arthroscopy if the fragment is causing symptoms like pain, catching, locking, or limited range of motion. This approach is supported by the most recent and highest quality study, which emphasizes the importance of evaluating the intra-articular fragment and its aetiopathogenesis to plan optimal treatment 1.
Key Considerations
- Loose bodies are not separate entities and must be evaluated within the context of the underlying disease, such as osteochondritis dissecans, osteoarthritis, chondral defect, tumour-like lesions, or rheumatoid arthritis 1.
- Before considering surgery, conservative treatments may be tried, including rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), anti-inflammatory medications, and activity modification to avoid movements that worsen symptoms.
- Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the knee to improve stability.
Surgical Approach
- Arthroscopic removal of the loose body is a minimally invasive procedure that allows for the removal of the fragment with minimal damage to the surrounding tissue.
- The procedure involves making small incisions to insert a camera and specialized instruments to locate and remove the loose body.
Underlying Disease Management
- Management of the underlying disease is crucial to prevent further loose body formation and to alleviate symptoms.
- This may involve lifestyle modification, physiotherapy, pharmacological, and surgical treatment, depending on the underlying condition 1.
Evidence Summary
- A narrative review published in 2022 highlights the importance of comprehensive evaluation and management of loose bodies in the knee joint, taking into account the underlying disease 1.
- Other studies have investigated the use of intra-articular injections, such as platelet-rich plasma, as a treatment option for knee osteoarthritis, but these are not directly relevant to the treatment of loose bodies in the knee 2, 3.