What Is Knee Arthroscopy?
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat various issues within the knee joint. During this procedure, a surgeon makes a small incision and inserts a tiny camera, known as an arthroscope, into the knee. This camera allows the surgeon to view the inside of the joint on a monitor, facilitating a detailed examination. If necessary, small instruments can be used to address the problem directly through the arthroscope.
Arthroscopy can diagnose and address several knee issues, including a torn meniscus, misaligned patella, or ligament damage. It is considered a low-risk procedure, and most patients experience a positive outcome. Recovery time and prognosis depend on the severity of the knee issue and the complexity of the surgery required.
Why Do I Need Knee Arthroscopy?
If you are experiencing persistent knee pain, your doctor might suggest a knee arthroscopy. This procedure helps confirm a diagnosis or uncover the cause of your discomfort. It is particularly useful for diagnosing and treating injuries or conditions such as:
Torn anterior or posterior cruciate ligaments
Torn meniscus (the cartilage between knee bones)
Misaligned patella
Loose pieces of torn cartilage
Baker’s cyst
Fractures in the knee bones
Swollen synovium (the lining of the joint)
How Do I Prepare for Knee Arthroscopy?
Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth surgery. Your doctor will guide you on how to prepare, including:
Informing your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, prior to the procedure.
Avoiding food and drink for six to 12 hours before surgery.
Arranging for pain medication prescribed by your doctor to be filled in advance.
What Happens During a Knee Arthroscopy?
Prior to the procedure, you will receive an anesthetic, which may be local, regional, or general, depending on your case.
Local Anesthetic: Numbs only in the knee area.
Regional Anesthetic: Numbs from the waist down.
General Anesthetic: Puts you completely to sleep.
The surgeon will make a few small incisions around your knee and inject sterile saline to expand the joint, which provides a clearer view. The arthroscope, equipped with a camera, is inserted through one incision to visualize the joint's interior. The surgeon then uses small instruments to address any issues detected.
After the procedure, the saline is drained, and the incisions are closed with stitches.
What Are the Risks Associated with Knee Arthroscopy?
As with any surgery, knee arthroscopy carries some risks, though they are relatively rare. General risks include:
Excessive bleeding
Infection at the surgery site
Breathing difficulties from anaesthesia
Allergic reactions to anesthesia or medications
Specific risks associated with knee arthroscopy include:
Internal bleeding within the knee joint
Blood clots in the leg
Joint infection
Stiffness in the knee
Potential injury to cartilage, ligaments, meniscus, blood vessels, or nerves
What Is Recovery Like After a Knee Arthroscopy?
Knee arthroscopy is typically a short procedure, often completed in under an hour, and many patients are discharged the same day. Post-surgery, you will need to use an ice pack and a dressing to reduce swelling and manage pain.
Recovery involves:
Resting with your leg elevated and applying ice for a day or two.
Changing your dressing as instructed by your surgeon.
Attending a follow-up appointment a few days after the surgery.
Equipment you may require post-knee arthroscopy
2. Wheelchair
3. Walker
Your doctor will recommend a home exercise regimen or physical therapy to restore your knee’s full range of motion and strength. With proper care, the recovery outlook is excellent, and most patients return to normal activities relatively quickly.
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