Mid-term prognosis of endoscopic debridement combined with percutaneous cutaneo-fascial suture for the treatment of Morel-Lavallée lesion: a minimum 3-year follow-up study

Abstract

Purpose

Morel-Lavallée lesion (MLL) is a closed soft-tissue degloving injurie resulting from shear forces. With the advent of endoscopic technology and advancements in surgical techniques, innovative solutions are now available. However, there are few data on mid-term results after treatment of MLL, especially regarding arthroscopic method. The objective of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes of endoscopic debridement combined with percutaneous cutaneo-fascial suture in treating MLL.

Methods

A single-center retrospective study was conducted at a university teaching hospital investigating patients who underwent arthroscopic management of Morel-Lavallée lesion between 2014 and 2020.Patient demographics, postoperative recovery time, peri- and postoperative complications were investigated. Mid-term follow up clinical and radiological examinations were performed.

Results

The retrospective study included 38 patients aged between 11 and 90 years, with an average age of 50.9 ± 16.9 years. These patients waited an average of 36.6±23.5days to return to work after operation. The average time to follow-up was from 3 to 9 years, averaging 5.0 ± 1.8 years. At the end of follow-up, only one complication of superficial skin necrosis occurred, accounting for 2.6%. The imaging assessment at the final follow-up indicated improvement over the postoperative period for all 38patients.

Conclusion

In mid-term experience, endoscopic debridement combined with percutaneous cutaneo-fascial suture for MLL management is a safe and effective option.