|
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
My goal with this brief overview is to better prepare you for arthroscopic knee surgery.
(click on the link to learn more)
What is arthroscopy and how does it work?
What are the common types of knee problems that can be addressed with the arthroscope?
How long does the arthroscopic surgery last?
What are my responsibilities prior to surgery?
What can I expect after arthroscopy?
What is arthroscopy and how does it work?
Arthroscopy is a surgical technique that involves making a small portal in your knee without a large surgical incision. With the use of fiberoptic technology, an arthroscope, an instrument that allows us to visualize the inside structures of the knee through an instrument that is approximately diameter as a fountain pen, was designed. Usually two or three small slits in the skin and joint capsule are required to perform arthroscopic surgery. One portal is created for the arthroscope with a series of magnifying lenses that then allow the image to be sent to a television monitor. Water is pumped through the arthroscope which inflates the knee and allows more ease in maneuverability. The second portal is used for instruments that are designed to remove damaged tissue or repair damaged tissue.
back to top
What are the common types of knee problems that can be addressed with the arthroscope?
Meniscal tear: This is a spacer cartilage which acts as a buffer between the two large bones of the knee. This cartilage is commonly termed meniscus. Meniscus tears which are complex or are torn in more than one place are often times removed through the arthroscope. If the meniscus is torn in a linear fashion repair of the meniscus can be performed through the arthroscope.
Articular cartilage: The second most common surgery performed is removal of damaged hyaline cartilage. This cartilage is a capping cartilage that covers the end of both long bones of the knee. This hyaline cartilage also caps the under surface of the kneecap. The arthroscope can be used for removal of damaged hyaline cartilage or attempt to regenerate new cartilage.
Ligament damage: Ligament reconstruction may also be assisted with the arthroscope and replaces traditional open knee surgery.
Arthritis:The last form of arthroscopy is used for early arthritis for removal of damaged cartilage and bone spurs.
back to top
How long does the arthroscopic surgery last?
Every arthroscopic procedure is different depending on the surgical findings but the most common arthroscopic procedures last from 20 minutes to slightly over 1 hour. The average surgery is between 30-40 minutes. The length will depend on the underlying pathology and the amount of damaged tissue that requires removal, reconstruction, or repair.
back to top
What are my responsibilities prior to surgery?
We recommend that you do not eat or drink after midnight the night before surgery. In addition 3-5 days prior to surgery we ask that you discontinue all blood thinners, anti-inflammatory medication, or aspirin products. In this way you can hopefully avoid any additional bleeding that occurs after surgery. You should shower the night before surgery but we do not require that you shave the operative leg. We prefer that you empty your bladder at least an hour prior to the operative procedure.
back to top
What can I expect after arthroscopy?
Immediately following surgery your knee will have a dressing and ace wrap. Certain procedures will require the use of a knee immobilizer or brace however, most procedures allow only a soft tissue dressing. Your responsibility immediately after surgery are as follows:
- Bring crutches for use immediately post-op that allow you to walk for the next 2-3 days with crutch assistance.
- Ice and elevation. You will experience some discomfort and swelling during the first few days and therefore elevation with your knee 6 inches above your heart is critical for the first 48 hours. In addition we recommend use of ice for 20 minutes 3-4 times per day.
- Medications. Pain medications will usually be prescribed to help you handle the postoperative pain and discomfort.
- Surgical dressing. The dressing will usually be changed the day following surgery where you will be expected to return to the office for an appointment. A new dressing will be placed and should be left on for an additional 3 days. After that time the dressing can be completely removed and showers are allowed. No baths or Jacuzzis are allowed for 3 weeks post operatively.
You will find white steri strips or adhesive band aid type material across the small incisions and these should be left alone and allowed to fall off on their own. Do not pull or pick them off your skin. It will usually take 7-14 days for these small steri strips to fall off.
|
|
