MSK Doctors

PLICA syndrome

PLICA syndrome is a commonly overlooked cause of anterior knee pain. If you have ongoing, undiagnosed anterior knee pain, MSK Doctors can help.

About
PLICA is a condition affecting the synovial tissue
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Not Needed
Booking
Instant-book option available
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Who it suits

Suitable for

  • Anterior knee pain

Treatment overview

PLICA syndrome is a condition affecting the synovial tissue in the knee (the PLICA). The tissue becomes irritated and inflamed, causing pain, swelling and clicking sensations.

Because these symptoms are so broad, diagnosis can be difficult. Many of our patients have been seen by several doctors, physios or surgeons, without a diagnosis or any improvement.

MSK Doctor, Prof. Paul Lee, is an international expert on PLICA syndrome. The most important step is diagnosing the condition. We must arrange an MRI scan to confirm you have PLICA, before we progress with treatment. After confirmation, we will arrange keyhole surgery to treat the condition.

During surgery, we will enter the knee via keyhole incisions to remove and trim the synovial fold. We’ll cut away the irritated PLICA, and this will reduce pain and improve movement.

  • Arthroscopic procedures
  • Minimal tissue damage
  • Improves mobility and stability
  • Fast recovery

Cost and paying

How to Pay

We offer a range of flexible payment options to make your treatment experience smooth and stress-free.

Paying for Yourself (Preferred Option)

Most patients choose to self-fund their treatment. We accept:

  • Bank Transfers
  • Credit/Debit Cards
  • Cash (in person only)

Instalment Plans

We’ve partnered with GoCardless to offer interest-free instalment options. You can easily set up a Direct Debit to spread the cost of your treatment over time.

Finance Options

Looking for a financing plan? You can apply through Kandoo, our trusted finance partner.

  • Instant online decision
  • No impact on your credit score
  • Multiple lenders for competitive rates

Private Medical Insurance (Limited Availability)

We work with a small number of approved insurance providers. However, due to restrictions from many insurers, not all treatments are covered. Please check with your insurer and speak to our team before booking to avoid disappointment.

What happens

Treatment Booking Process

  1. 01

    Online booking/call

    Use our website to book an initial consultation, or give us a call.

  2. 02

    Consultation

    Our doctors might request you arrange a scan before your initial consultation. Or, they’ll chat with you (face to face or online) and recommend a scan after your initial consultation, if they think you need one.

  3. 03

    Treatment

    Once your scan results have been reviewed, and your doctor has explained your options, you will be booked in for treatment.

  4. 04

    Rehab

    Following your treatment, your doctor will give you rehab recommendations.

  5. 05

    Follow Up

    You will be booked in for a follow-up consultation, so your doctor can check your progress. You might need further rehab after this consultation.

  6. 06

    Discharge

    Once your doctor is happy with your recovery, you will be discharged. After discharge, we are always here for further questions or support, should you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is PLICA so hard to diagnose?

PLICA is difficult to diagnose because the symptoms, such as pain, swelling and clicking, mimic a range of other conditions. PLICA syndrome is often misdiagnosed as meniscus tears, patellar tendonitis or osteoarthritis. It can also be hard to accurately investigate the PLICA via MRI, so diagnosis relies on clinical examination too.

Are there conservative treatments for PLICA?

Yes, and these should always be pursued before surgical treatments. Conservative treatments for PLICA syndrome include activity modification, exercise therapy and taping. Our doctors will be able to talk through conservative treatments with you, if we believe these could help you manage the pain.

London Cartilage Clinic

Looking for Treatment in London?

We now offer select services at our Harley Street London clinic through the London Cartilage Clinic, led by internationally recognised surgeon Professor Paul Lee.

Book at Our London Clinic
  • Specialist in Cartilage Repair & Joint Preservation

    Our London clinic offers advanced treatments like cartilage regeneration and joint preservation to help patients avoid or delay joint replacement.

  • Harley Street Clinic

    Located in Central London, our clinic provides convenient access to world-class musculoskeletal care without long NHS wait times.

  • Transparent Pricing & Direct Booking

    If you would like to be seen in Central London, visit our London Clinic page for pricing, available treatments, and to book directly online.

  • Faster Recovery Outcomes

    Our Harley Street clinic uses cutting-edge techniques designed to reduce downtime and support faster, more effective recovery, getting you back to your lifestyle sooner.

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Book a free Discovery Call

Don’t wait to find relief. Whether it’s a consultation, scan, or treatment, we’re ready to help. Book a call with the admin team to discuss.

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