Radiofrequency Chondroplasty of the Knee Yields Excellent Clinical Outcomes and Minimal Complications: A Systematic Review

PurposeTo evaluate reported clinical outcomes and complications following radiofrequency (RF) ablation for the treatment of knee chondral lesions.MethodsA literature search was performed according to 2020 Preferred Reporting Items Systematic Reviews Meta-Analyses guidelines by querying EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus computerized databases from database inception through October 2022. Level I IV studies that or RF-based chondroplasty were included. Postoperative outcome scores aggregated. Study quality assessed via Newcastle–Ottawa Scale.ResultsTen articles 2002 2018 consisting 1,107 patients (n = 1,504 lesions) identified. Four evidence, 3 II, 1 study III, 2 IV. The mean patient age 41.8 ± 6.3 years (range, 12-87). Seven 1,037 patients) used bipolar RF devices, 70 monopolar devices. overall postoperative Lysholm, Tegner, IKDC ranged 83 91, 3.8 7, 49 90, respectively, in lesions ranging grade I-IV Outerbridge Classification. Monopolar devices qualitatively similar changes Lysholm (83), Tegner (3.8), 49-69) compared with 86.4-91, 4.5-7, respectively). incidence 0% 4%. most commonly complication osteonecrosis 4%). rate undergoing additional surgery 4.5%.ConclusionsThe available on shows its efficacy safety lesions, good low reoperation rates.Level EvidenceLevel IV, systematic review studies. To lesions. A Scale. Ten 4.5%. rates.