Knee Arthroscopy Procedures
During arthroscopic surgery, instruments are inserted through small incisions in a triangular approach that allows avoidance of open surgery. Arthroscopic knee procedures are highly successful for diagnosis and repair of injuries.
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What is Arthroscopy?
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Arthroscopic surgery is a less-invasive procedure that uses small surgical instruments inserted through two to four small incisions that measure one centimeter or less. Arthroscopic equipment includes the scope, surgical instruments and sterile fluid.
The scope allows the surgeon to see inside the knee joint. It is made up of a camera, a fiber-optic light source and a magnifying lens. The scope projects images from inside the knee joint onto a monitor.
Arthroscopy entails the use of surgical instruments that are miniaturized to fit through the small incisions. These instruments include scissors, shavers, probes and biters.
Structures of the Knee Joint
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Arthroscopic surgery allows the structures of the knee joint to be seen and assessed. The knee is a hinge joint that involves three main parts: the femur (thigh bone), the tibia (shin bone) and the patella (knee cap). The surgeon is also able to view the cartilage, ligaments and diagnose problems such as arthritis.
There are four ligaments that stabilize the knee joint: anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments and the medial and lateral collateral ligaments. Tears and damage to these four ligaments result in buckling of the knee and dislocation. -
Arthroscopic Procedures
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Arthroscopic surgery is performed on the knee for the following reasons: a torn meniscus, torn anterior or posterior cruciate ligaments, inflamed synovial membrane, misalignment of the knee cap and loose bodies like cartilage and bone.
Arthroscopic procedures include repairing and removing damaged cartilage, repair or removal of the meniscus and realignment of the knee cap. Arthroscopic surgery is also used for pain management. Surgeons perform what is called lavage and debridement during which they identify and remove displaced tissue or loose bodies.
Recovery
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Recovery from arthroscopic knee surgery is dependent solely upon the type of surgery and the individual. Surgeries that do not involve ligament repair heal more quickly. Most people go home the same day of surgery. Surgeons usually suggest the RICE therapy to begin a speedy recovery: rest, ice, compression and elevation.
Your leg will be able to bear weight depending on your pain tolerance. Patients normally use crutches for three to seven days. It will be at least a week before you are able to drive an automatic transmission vehicle. You will be able to return to your sit-down job after about a week, but other jobs require additional recovery time.
Prognosis
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The prognosis of arthroscopic knee procedures depends on the severity of the injury and what was done during the surgery. Your doctor will either alter your activities to lessen the risk of further injury or you will be able to return to normal activity.
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