Knee Arthroscopy: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Knee pain can be a real obstacle to living your best life. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or just trying to stay active, knee issues can slow you down. One common solution for diagnosing and treating knee problems is knee arthroscopy. But what exactly is knee arthroscopy? Let’s take a closer look!

What is Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows doctors to view the knee joint without making large incisions. It’s often referred to as “keyhole surgery” because it involves just a few small cuts.

Why is Knee Arthroscopy Done?

There are several reasons why your doctor might recommend knee arthroscopy:

• Diagnosing Problems: Sometimes, imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs don’t give a complete picture. Arthroscopy can help get a closer look at the joint.
• Repairing Ligaments: Torn ligaments, like the ACL, can be repaired using arthroscopy.
• Removing Damaged Cartilage: Arthroscopy allows doctors to remove or repair damaged cartilage, helping to relieve pain and improve function.
• Treating Meniscus Tears: A common knee injury, meniscus tears can be trimmed or repaired during arthroscopy.

The Procedure

During knee arthroscopy, a surgeon makes a few small incisions around your knee. A tiny camera, called an arthroscope, is inserted into one of the incisions. This camera projects images of the inside of your knee onto a screen, allowing the surgeon to see what’s going on. Small surgical instruments are inserted through the other incisions to perform the necessary repairs.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from knee arthroscopy is generally quicker than traditional open surgery. Here’s what you can expect:

• Immediate Aftercare: You’ll be able to go home the same day. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can help manage swelling and pain.
• Physical Therapy: A crucial part of recovery, physical therapy helps restore strength and mobility. Your therapist will guide you through exercises tailored to your specific needs.
• Full Recovery: Most people can return to their normal activities after a few weeks, although high-impact sports might require a longer recovery time.

Conclusion

Knee arthroscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating a variety of knee problems with minimal disruption to your life. If you’re experiencing knee pain or have been diagnosed with a knee issue, talk to your orthopedic doctor to see if knee arthroscopy might be right for you.