Short- and mid-term results of plica excision in patients with mediopatellar plica and associated cartilage degeneration

This study aimed to evaluate the short- and mid-term results of plica excision in patients with mediopatellar plica and associated cartilage degeneration. Seventy-six surgically treated patients with mediopatellar plica and associated cartilage degeneration at medial femoral condyle (MFC) and/or medial pole of patella were included. Patients were evaluated at baseline, at 6 weeks and 6 months after the operation for their clinical outcomes and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores. The frequency of all signs and symptoms, including all pain parameters, and WOMAC scores were significantly improved compared to baseline, at 6 weeks and 6 months after the operation (P < 0.017). Based on mean WOMAC scores, results of most patients were rated as excellent both at 6 weeks (88%) and at 6 months (94%). Surgical excision of mediopatellar plica associated with cartilage degeneration appears to result in substantial clinical improvement, thus it represents an effective treatment modality.