Membrane fold syndrome

(Plica syndrome)

The membranous folds are one of the sources of pain on the anterior surface of the knee in children and adolescents. The medial and lateral knee folds are normal membranous folds that separate the compartments of the knee during development. They are usually asymptomatic and have little clinical significance. However, when repeated cases of membranous inflammation develop within the folds, they swell, thicken and are replaced by fibrous connective tissue, losing their elasticity. In advanced cases, the articular cartilage is eroded. The trigger for this inflammatory process is direct injury to the membranous fold and strain or internal disorders of the knee (loose bodies, osteochondritis dissecans, meniscus tear).

Membranous fold syndrome

Although 20% of adolescents and adults have membranous folds, most are asymptomatic. The patient often has a feeling of “grabbing” and “clicking” inside the knee and, in 50% of cases, Swelling of the knee, usually after intense exercise, may also occur, momentary locking of the patella during knee flexion and extension.

Membranous fold syndrome

DIAGNOSTIC. The diagnosis of membranous fold is made by physical examination and history and is confirmed by arthroscopy. Magnetic resonance imaging. can visualize the membranous fold.

TREATMENT. The tape can be surgically removed during diagnostic arthroscopy and often leads to complete healing.

Membrane fold syndrome