What is Arthroscopic Knee Surgery?
During arthroscopic knee surgery, the physician employs arthroscopy or other tools to address the damaged meniscus in the knee by either removing it entirely or treating a specific section.
The meniscus, a flexible structure resembling rubber, is situated between the bones of the knee joint. To provide a clear view inside the knee, a slender tube called an arthroscope, equipped with a light source, is employed. The arthroscope’s diameter is roughly equivalent to that of a pencil lead.
When is it Applied?
This procedure is performed when there is damaged cartilage in the knee.
Other alternatives include:
- Limiting your range of motion
- Taking medication to prevent swelling
- Receiving physical therapy
- Undergoing open knee surgery
- Choosing not to seek treatment, while being aware of the risks involved
How Should I Prepared to This Procedure?
Make arrangements for your post-operative care and recovery if you will be undergoing general anesthesia. Take time to rest and enlist the help of others for your daily responsibilities.
Adhere to the recommendations of your doctor. Prior to the procedure, avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight, and refrain from having breakfast on the morning of the procedure. It is important to abstain from consuming coffee, tea, or water.
How is it Applied?
Different types of anesthesia, such as general, regional, or local anesthesia, may be given. General anesthesia will induce a deep sleep-like state by relaxing your muscles. With local or regional anesthesia, you will remain awake while a specific area of your body is numbed. The purpose of anesthesia is to prevent you from feeling pain.
The surgeon will place an arthroscope or a few instruments into the inner part of the knee joint through small incisions. By injecting fluid into the knee, the joint will expand, enabling clear visualization of the tissue structure and cartilage. The doctor will examine the knee to assess any damage and proceed with treating the affected cartilage or removing a portion of it as necessary. Finally, the surgeon will remove the arthroscope and instruments, and close the small incisions with stitches.
You can be discharged on the same day and return home. It is important to keep your leg elevated. Avoid exerting yourself for a minimum of 2-3 days. Refrain from engaging in strenuous activities until your doctor grants permission.
After the Surgery;
- Use crutches for a few days until you can walk normally.
- Keep your leg elevated, with your ankle positioned higher than your knee and your knee higher than your hips.
- Apply ice to your knee for 20 to 30 minutes, 3-4 times a day, until your symptoms improve.
- Gradually start bending your knee as soon as possible.
- Replace the bandage on the 4th day and cover the incisions with a plaster or sterile gauze.
- If you have knee braces or supports, consult your doctor for guidance.
- If your cartilage was treated but not removed, your doctor may recommend using crutches for an extended period to prevent putting weight on your leg. Remember to ask your doctor about any additional treatment steps and the recommended timeframe for follow-up checkups.
What are the Benefits?
Artroscopy enables the treatment of your knee without the need for open knee surgery or large incisions. It offers a faster recovery time compared to open knee surgery.
Risk Factors
- Local anesthesia may not completely numb the area and you might experience some discomfort. There is also a slight chance of allergic reactions to the medications used in this type of anesthesia. Local anesthesia is generally considered safer for older adults and individuals with certain medical conditions.
- Surrounding blood vessels and nerves near the knee could be affected, resulting in temporary numbness or weakness below the knee.
- Deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in the deep veins of the legs) is a possible complication.
- There is a risk of infection and bleeding.
It is advisable to consult your doctor to understand the specific risks associated with the procedure.
When Should I Consult the Doctor?
If:
- There is excessive discharge from the incisions
- You experience unusual pain
- Your knee becomes locked in position
- You have a fever
- Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis appear
- Signs of infection manifest
Seek prompt medical attention. Additionally, feel free to consult your doctor at a convenient time if you have any inquiries regarding the treatment and its results, or if you need to schedule a follow-up appointment for monitoring your condition.
