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Arcuate ligament
The arcuate ligament is a thickening of the posterolateral capsule at the back of the knee, that contributes to stability of the joint in this region. Page updated May 2024 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)
Arrow
An arrow in knee surgery is a small barbed fixation device for meniscal repair.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a destructive process of the joint cartilage (the 'gristle') covering the ends of the bones, exposing the sensitive bone underneath and causing pain and eventual deformity. Page updated July 2024 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)
Arthrofibrosis
Arthrofibrosis of the knee is a complication of injury or surgery where an excessive scar tissue response leads to painful restriction of knee motion. Page updated March 2024 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)
Arthrogram
An arthrogram is an X-ray highlighting the joint space of the knee rather than the bones.
Arthrolysis
Arthrolysis is the surgical release of scar tissue in a stiff joint.
Arthropathy
Arthropathy is a non-specific term implying disease of a joint. Page updated July 2024 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)
Arthroplasty
An arthroplasty is a joint joint replacement, such as a total or partial knee replacement. Page updated July 2024 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)
Arthroplasty complications
Knee replacement does not always go smoothly and may have a number of complications. Page updated July 2024 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)
Arthroscope
An arthroscope is the main instrument used for looking into the knee during keyhole surgery - ie arthroscopy. Page updated July 2024 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)