Knee problems are a common concern for many individuals, whether due to age, injury, or wear and tear from daily activities. When non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, knee arthroscopy may be recommended. It’s an advanced, minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various knee joint issues. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of knee arthroscopy, how the procedure works, the types of conditions it can treat, and how to find the best knee arthroscopy treatment tailored to your needs.
Knee arthroscopy is one of the most effective and minimally invasive surgical procedures used to diagnose and treat various knee problems. If you or someone you know is experiencing knee pain, stiffness, or instability, knee arthroscopy might be the solution to bring relief.
Knee arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that allows a doctor to examine, diagnose, and treat problems inside the knee joint. The word “arthroscopy” comes from the Greek words “arthro,” meaning joint, and “skopein,” meaning to look or examine. During the procedure, a small camera (arthroscope) is inserted through tiny incisions around the knee joint, providing real-time images of the area. These images help the surgeon identify problems like tears, inflammation, or damage to the knee cartilage and surrounding tissues.
Knee arthroscopy is often used as a less invasive alternative to traditional open surgery. This means smaller incisions, reduced scarring, quicker recovery, and a lower risk of complications. It can be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, allowing surgeons to repair or remove damaged tissue and improve knee function.
Knee arthroscopy is typically performed under general anesthesia or regional anesthesia, which numbs the area below the waist. The surgeon will make two or three small incisions around the knee and insert the arthroscope (a small camera) and surgical tools. The camera sends images to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to view the inside of the knee joint in real-time.
If the procedure is being used to treat a specific problem, such as a meniscus tear, the surgeon will use specialized tools to repair or remove the damaged tissue. In some cases, a small amount of fluid may be pumped into the joint to improve visibility and ease movement of the instruments.
The entire procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the issue being addressed. After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room to be monitored as the anesthesia wears off. Most patients are able to go home the same day.
Knee arthroscopy is a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure for treating a wide variety of knee issues, from cartilage damage to ligament tears. It offers numerous benefits, including reduced scarring, faster recovery times, and lower risk of complications. By choosing an experienced surgeon and following proper post-operative care, you can experience relief from knee pain and restore your quality of life.