Summary
A plica syndrome is a complex of symptoms in which a non-receding fold of skin in the knee joint can cause pinching or friction. Due to the limited space in the area of the knee, chafing occurs relatively soon on the joint cartilage, which becomes increasingly thin. In this case, there are initially no symptoms.
When the joint cartilage has released bone at certain points, there is direct contact between the skin fold and the bone. This usually leads to relieving postures and impaired movement. Especially movements that put strain on the knee joint, such as climbing stairs or hiking in the mountains, can increase the discomfort.
The diagnosis of a plica syndrome is not easy. An MRI examination can prove the presence of a plica in the knee joint and show the available space. Often, however, incarcerations cannot be shown.
The safest method of detecting a plica syndrome is joint arthroscopy. Instruments are inserted into the knee joint through small skin incisions. The knee can also be moved during the examination and it can be assessed whether any incarcerations occur during knee flexion.
Ideally, a plica can be removed in the same session. This measure represents the surgical treatment of a plica syndrome. However, numerous conservative methods, such as sparing, pain treatment or physiotherapy should be attempted beforehand.
