Knee Arthroscopy

What is knee arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure using a thin, lighted tube with a camera attached, called an arthroscope, to view or repair tissues inside of your knee joint. Your orthopedic surgeon offers arthroscopy to diagnose and treat knee injuries or degeneration linked with arthritis.

Why might I need a knee arthroscopy?

Your specialist may recommend knee arthroscopy if you have, or they suspect you have, the following conditions:

• Severe knee pain
• Ongoing knee discomfort
• Arthritis
• Ligament tears - ACL, PCL, MCL, LCL 
• Cartilage injuries
• Joint scarring
• Meniscus tears
• Joint instability
• Loose bone fragments
• Fractures
• Other knee injuries

Your provider first discusses your symptoms and medical history, checks your vital signs, and examines your knee joint. They may recommend you complete blood tests, X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or other imaging procedures. 

What are the benefits of knee arthroscopy?

Some of the benefits of knee arthroscopy include:

• Pain relief 
• Injury repair
• Low risk of complications
• Minimal bleeding
• Small incisions
• Minimal recovery time
• Less scarring

Arthroscopy is a highly effective treatment for diagnosing and treating a variety of knee and other joint problems.

How should I prepare for my surgery?

Follow your surgeon’s pre-surgery instructions before undergoing knee arthroscopy. They may ask you to stop taking certain medications and avoid eating or drinking anything the morning of your scheduled surgery. Wear comfortable clothes and arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. 

What happens during a knee arthroscopy?

Right before knee arthroscopy, you receive local, regional, or general anesthesia to avoid discomfort and help you relax. Your surgeon makes tiny incisions in your knee to view the inside of it. They remove or repair damaged tissues as needed before closing the incisions and taking you to a recovery area.

What should I expect after the procedure?

After knee arthroscopy, you can go home the same day. Have someone drive you home and follow your surgeon’s post-surgery instructions. Ice your knee, use crutches or a knee brace as needed, and take medications as directed. Attend physical therapy sessions and avoid driving and strenuous activity until your specialist says it’s okay.

Don’t live with ongoing knee discomfort when knee arthroscopy can offer you relief. Call the Twin Palm Orthopedics office to schedule an appointment or request one online today.