Arthroscopic knee surgery is a procedure in which a surgeon can see the inside of the knee joint using a minimally invasive surgical technique, says the Johns Hopkins department of Orthopaedic Surgery. This procedure is used to help diagnose and treat a myriad of knee-related orthopedic problems and has been very effective, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, or AAOS.
Significance
The AAOS cites the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine as saying that worldwide, there are more than 4 million knee arthroscopies performed yearly. Prior to having arthroscopic knee surgery, each patient will be evaluated to assess general health and identify any problems that may interfere with surgery or healing, says the AAOS.
Features
Arthroscopic knee surgery is performed through small incisions that are made around the knee joint. Saline is pumped into the joint to open the space up and clear away any debris. An arthroscope, which is a small camera, is inserted into the joint, and the images it captures are put on a screen for the surgical team to view. This lets the surgeons clearly see the details of the joint and any problems that may be present. Any surgical instruments used during the surgery are inserted through the small incisions that were made around the knee.
Function
Knee arthroscopy is used to help correct a variety of problems. The University of Maryland Medical Center describes instances where this surgery may be performed, including the repair of a torn meniscus; a torn or damaged anterior cruciate ligament or posterior cruciate ligament; inflamed or damaged synovium, which is the lining of the joint; patellar misalignment; pieces of broken cartilage in the joint; removal of Baker's cyst; and some knee fractures.
Recovery
Arthroscopic knee surgery typically has a shorter recovery period than traditional open knee surgery, says the AAOS. Elevating the leg, keeping the incision clean and dry, refraining from bearing weight on the affected leg and taking pain medication when necessary can all aid in recovery. The AAOS says that most patients are able to drive one to three weeks post-surgery, and exercising the knee for several weeks post-op can restore flexibility and range of motion, as well as strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee joint.
Complications
Knee arthroscopy, though minimally invasive, is still surgery, and complications are a risk of any procedure. The AAOS lists several possible complications, including infection, blood clots and accumulation of blood inside the knee. Though complications are rare, they do occur. Post-surgery, the surgeon should be notified if the following occur, says the AAOS: persistent or increased pain; significant swelling of the knee; calf muscle pain that gets progressively worse; and fever or chills.
