Arthroscopic visualization of the posteromedial compartment of the knee joint.

Introduction of the arthroscope in the midline through the patellar tendon about 1 cm. below the apex of the patella is described. The posterior compartments of the knee joint can be examined from this single entry. The technique has been used in 1232 patients without any complications. In 127 patients subjected also to arthrotomy the arthroscopic diagnosis proved to be correct in all instances except for one missed rupture of the posterior cruciate liagment. In that case a bucket handle rupture of the medial meniscus prevented the entry into the posteromedial compartment.