Statistical Analysis of Clinical Variables to Predict the Outcome of Surgical Intervention in Patients with Knee Complaints

INTRODUCTION Knee complaints secondary to injury and overuse are common in both general and orthopedic practice. They are particularly common in athletes and other physically active individuals. Knee problems including significant meniscal tears, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, intraarticular fractures and osteochondritis dessicans are often best managed with surgical treatment. On the other hand, problems including patellofemoral pain, medial collateral ligament sprains, iliotibial band syndrome, and patellar tendonitis are generally best managed non-operatively with appropriate rehabilitation. Based on history and physical exam, it can be difficult to separate those patients with knee pain likely to benefit from early surgical intervention from those in whom initial conservative treatment is more appropriate.