Characteristics of intra-articular injuries of the knee joint in coal miners
Ziółkiewicz, M.; Gaździk, T.S.
Chirurgia Narzadow Ruchu i Ortopedia Polska 65(6): 651-656
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 0009-479X PMID: 11388016 Document Number: 523917
This study presents an analysis of chronic knee injuries among coalminers. The aim of this paper was to individuate a relationship between the work conditions in coal mines and the observed pathological changes in the knee joint, as well as to assess the results of treatment. A population of 120 coal miners age ranging from 20 to 46 years (mean age 33.4 years) working in conditions continuously stressing the knee joints was evaluated. It was found that the lower the seam where the miners worked, the greater was the damage to the cartilage. Meniscus injuries were found mainly in miners working in higher seams with smaller load on the knew. It was also found that in this population multiple structures of the knee were injured simultaneously.