Recurrent hemarthrosis of the knee after remote fracture fixation: A report of two cases

Abstract

Case: Two patients presented with recurrent hemarthrosis and limited range of motion after remote ORIF of peri-articular knee fractures. Symptoms resolved temporarily with aspirations, which were negative for infectious or immune etiologies, but subsequently reaccumulated. Neither radiographs nor MRI definitively demonstrated intra-articular extension of the hardware. After arthroscopically-assisted removal of hardware (ROH), there was resolution of symptoms and functional improvement. Conclusion: With recurrent hemarthrosis of unknown etiology after ORIF of peri-articular knee fractures, the authors recommend consideration of removal of hardware that may project intra-articular. Arthroscopy allows direct visualization of the prominent hardware, articular cartilage, and other intra-articular soft tissues that may be damaged.