The medical records of 11 patients (average age, 37 years) who underwent 12 open-knee Magnuson debridements for degenerative arthritis at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation between July 1982 and December 1991 were reviewed. The postoperative results were evaluated subjectively, using a modification of the National Survey of Total Knee Replacement questionnaire. These patients were followed with clinical and radiologic examinations for a mean of 73 months (range, 17-130 months). The major indications for surgery were pain (91%) and inability to participate in recreational activities (55%). Although many of the changes were not statistically significant, the patients as a group experienced clinically important reductions in pain and improvements in function. More importantly, all patients were able to participate in recreational activities after surgery. None of the 11 patients have subsequently required a total knee arthroplasty. The Magnuson open-knee debridemert, in limited situations, should be considered as a temporary alternative to knee arthroplasty in the young or middle-aged, active individual who is not ready to accept the limitations of a total knee arthroplasty.