How Is Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Performed?

What is Arthroscopic Knee Surgery?

Tears in the ligaments or meniscus, loose cartilage and problems with the knee joint surface are commonly treated with arthroscopic knee surgery. This procedure uses several small incisions into which a camera and the surgical tools are inserted to perform the needed repairs to the joint. Since the incisions are smaller than traditional open knee surgery, the scarring is lessened and recovery time is reduced.

Preparations

Arthroscopic knee surgery is performed on an outpatient basis. The patient changes into a gown and is attached to machines for monitoring his vital signs. One of three forms of anesthesia is given: a local to deaden the knee, a spinal to numb everything below the waist or a general to put the patient completely to sleep.

Incisions

Small incisions will be made depending on the procedure. Most doctors make two to three cuts around the knee. Into one of these a tube will pump a salt water solution into the knee. This opens up the knee to make the inside visible to the camera. On another tube, a camera attached to a video monitor in the operating room is put into the knee. This will act as the eyes of the surgeon during the procedure.

More Specifics

While watching on the video monitor, the doctor will insert the needed surgical tools into the knee to correct the problem with the joint. Depending upon what needs to be done, it could require 45 minutes to an hour and a half. The doctor might remove torn cartilage, inflamed joint (synovial) tissue or loose bone fragments. He could also repair torn ligaments or cartilage. All of the surgical tools and camera are removed from the knee, and the salt water solution is drained. Incisions are sewn back up and covered with bandages. The patient will then be moved to recovery until he wakes up.

References

• American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons: Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
• Knee Arthroscopy