Arthroscopy of the Knee

Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure in which a joint is viewed using a small camera. This gives doctors a clear view of the inside of the knee and helps them to diagnose and treat knee problems.

Arthroscopy may be recommended for the following knee problems:

• Removal or repair of torn meniscal cartilage
• Reconstruction of a torn anterior cruciate ligament
• Trimming of torn pieces of articular cartilage
• Removal of loose fragments of bone or cartilage
• Removal of inflamed synovial tissue

According to American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, “Arthroscopy is done through small incisions. During the procedure, your orthopedic surgeon inserts the arthroscope (a small camera instrument about the size of a pencil) into your knee joint. The arthroscope sends the image to a television monitor. On the monitor, your surgeon can see the structures of the knee in great detail. Your surgeon can use arthroscopy to feel, repair or remove damaged tissue. To do this, small surgical instruments are inserted through other incisions around your knee.”

RECOVERING FROM SURGERY

After the surgery you will have an ace bandage on your knee over the dressing. Most individuals go home the same day as surgery. You may be advised to elevate the joint and apply ice packs to help with swelling.

The recovery time depends upon many factors, however it is mostly due to how extensive the surgery was. After arriving home, crutches must be used for at least 3-7 days as directed by your doctor. Rest, ice packs, and elevating the limb are also recommended.

Your doctor will give you exercises to do or send you to physical therapy. Activities are progressed according to the amount of pain and swelling present in the knee. It typically takes about three weeks to recover fully for routine daily activities, but it may be two to three months before you can comfortably return to sports. As always, it is important to follow instructions given by your doctor.

References:
“Knee Arthroscopy.” American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00299.
“Knee Arthroscopy.” National Library of Medicine. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002972.htm.
“Knee Arthoroscopy Johns Hopkins Orthopaedic Surgery.” John Hopkins Orothopaedic Surgery. http://www.hopkinsortho.org/knee_arthroscopy.html.

Written by: Sharan Kaur, FizzNiche Staff Writer

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