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Interpreting Key Trials

A Perspective on the study of Moseley et al

Questioning the value of arthroscopic knee surgery for osteoarthritis

Joseph Bernstein, MD and Tony Quach, BA
Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine May 2003, 70 (5) 401-410;
Joseph Bernstein
Assistant professor of orthopedic surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
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Tony Quach
University of Pennsylvania
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ABSTRACT

Arthroscopy for degenerative conditions of the knee is among the most commonly employed orthopedic procedures, but its effectiveness (like the effectiveness of many surgical operations) has never been proven in prospective trials. Moreover, the precise mechanism by which arthroscopy improves the course of degenerative conditions of the knee has not been established conclusively. Moseley et al performed a double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to compare the effectiveness of arthroscopic lavage and arthroscopic debridement vs a sham procedure. Data regarding pain and function were obtained at multiple time points over a 2-year period. The authors found that all three treatment groups fared equally: each reported subjective symptomatic relief, but no objective improvement in function was noted in any of the groups. These data suggest that the benefits of arthroscopy for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee is to provide subjective pain relief, and that the means by which arthroscopy provides this benefit is via a placebo effect.

  • Copyright © 2003 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. All Rights Reserved.
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Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine: 70 (5)
Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine
Vol. 70, Issue 5
1 May 2003
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A Perspective on the study of Moseley et al
Joseph Bernstein, Tony Quach
Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine May 2003, 70 (5) 401-410;

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A Perspective on the study of Moseley et al
Joseph Bernstein, Tony Quach
Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine May 2003, 70 (5) 401-410;
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