Abstract
Synovial chondromatosis (SC) is a rare, benign monoarticular disorder characterized by intra-articular cartilaginous loose bodies resulting from synovial metaplasia, most commonly affecting the knee. The authors present the case of a 44-year-old man with progressive, debilitating left knee pain, mechanical symptoms, and functional limitations unresponsive to conservative treatment. Radiographs were unremarkable, but magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated multifocal noncalcified intra-articular bodies consistent with SC. The patient underwent arthroscopic debridement of the knee with limited synovectomy. Intraoperative findings included innumerable intra-articular cartilaginous loose bodies throughout the knee, synovial proliferation, and grade II chondromalacia. At three months postoperatively, the patient had regained full range of motion, returned to regular physical activity, and reported no recurrence. This case highlights the importance of early MRI evaluation in noncalcified SC and supports arthroscopic debridement without aggressive synovectomy as a safe and effective treatment option for diffuse intra-articular disease.
Recommended Citation
Singh, Gaurav; Bhavna Singh; Rebecca Peebles; and Justin Bartley. "Arthroscopic Treatment of Extensive Synovial Chondromatosis of the Knee: A Case Report." Western Journal of Orthopaedics 15, 1 (2026). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/wjo/vol15/iss1/17