Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Conditions It Treats:

Arthroscopic knee surgery is used to treat various knee conditions, including meniscal tears, ligament injuries (such as ACL tears), cartilage damage, and certain types of arthritis. It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows orthopedic surgeons to diagnose and treat knee problems using a small camera and specialized instruments inserted through small incisions.

Procedure Description:

Arthroscopic knee surgery involves the insertion of a small camera, called an arthroscope, and miniature surgical instruments into the knee joint through small incisions. The camera provides a clear view of the inside of the knee, allowing the surgeon to identify and address any abnormalities or damage. Depending on the specific condition, the surgeon may repair, remove, or reconstruct damaged tissues, such as torn ligaments or meniscus.

How Does It Help:

Arthroscopic knee surgery helps alleviate pain, improve function, and restore stability to the knee joint by addressing underlying structural abnormalities or damage. By repairing or removing damaged tissues, the procedure aims to promote healing and improve overall knee function, allowing patients to return to their regular activities with reduced pain and improved mobility.

Procedure Benefits:

• Minimally Invasive: Arthroscopic knee surgery is minimally invasive, resulting in smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.
• Accurate Diagnosis: The arthroscope provides a clear, magnified view of the inside of the knee, allowing for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment of knee problems.
• Pain Relief: By addressing underlying knee issues, arthroscopic surgery can help alleviate pain and discomfort, improving overall quality of life for patients.

How Long Does It Take:

The duration of arthroscopic knee surgery varies depending on the specific procedure performed and the extent of the damage or condition being treated. On average, the procedure takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete.

What Are the Expected Results:

Many patients experience significant improvement in knee pain, function, and stability following arthroscopic knee surgery. The procedure can help restore range of motion, improve joint stability, and reduce swelling, allowing patients to return to their regular activities with less pain and improved mobility.

Expected results may vary depending on the severity of the condition, the patient's overall health, and adherence to post-operative rehabilitation protocols.

If It Doesn’t Help, What Is Next:

If arthroscopic knee surgery does not provide the desired pain relief or functional improvement, alternative treatment options may be considered, including:

• Physical Therapy: Targeted physical therapy exercises can help improve knee strength, flexibility, and function, promoting better overall outcomes following surgery.
• Medication Management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may be prescribed to help manage pain and inflammation in the knee joint.
• Further Evaluation: Additional diagnostic tests or imaging studies may be necessary to reassess the underlying knee condition and explore other treatment options, such as revision surgery or joint replacement.

Is This Treatment Right for Me:

Arthroscopic knee surgery may be a suitable treatment option for individuals with knee pain or dysfunction due to various orthopedic conditions. However, it's essential to consult with an orthopedic surgeon to determine if this treatment is appropriate for your specific condition and individual health needs.

Factors such as the type and severity of the knee problem, overall health, activity level, and personal preferences will be considered to make an informed decision about whether arthroscopic knee surgery is right for you.