[Infection of the knee joint--an arthroscopic challenge?].

Unlike previous forms of surgical treatment, operative arthroscopy of the septic knee can prevent in most cases severe functional deficit or even ankylosis provided that arthroscopy is done within 1 week after the onset of the infection and that consistent and continuous passive motion is then carried out. In all other cases, open subtotal synovectomy is preferable to closed-irrigation suction drainage. In three-quarters of the cases presented, the functional results can be considered good. Reoperations have only been necessary when arthroscopy has been delayed by more than 1 week.