Arthroscopic Knee Surgery: A Step-by-step Guide to the Procedure and Recovery

Imagine, one day you feel a sudden intense knee pain while walking, playing sports,motor-riding, or doing routine activities at home like climbing steps. Initially, you may ignore it or attend the area with the RICE method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation based on suggestion or recommendation from the doctor. If the pain persists, you will choose to see an Orthopaedic doctor. During your doctor consultation, you may be recommended an x-ray, MRI, and further medications and physical therapy as well. If the pain and symptoms continue even after despite rest, physical therapy, and medication, the doctor may suggest the ideal Arthroscopic knee surgery considering your age, physical wellness, and medical condition.

What is Arthroscopic Knee Surgery: -

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure, used to diagnose and treat various knee problems. It is performed by an Orthopedic surgeon, making a small cut on your knee and inserting a small and flexible tube-like device called an arthroscope with a camera and light at the end. The device is connected to a monitor which visualizes the inside of the knee. The surgeon diagnoses the problem and performs the repair by making tiny incisions which ensures a successful cure and fast recovery.

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery is recommended for: -

• Knee pain that doesn’t get better with rest and nonsurgical treatments.
• Knee injuries like ligament sprains or cartilage damage
• Patella problems like misalignment of the kneecap
• Knee sepsis
• Torn meniscus
• Removing inflamed synovial tissue

* The choice between arthroscopic knee surgery and traditional surgery depends upon the complexity of the condition and the requirements of the patient. Hence, it is always best to consult with the right doctor before you decide.

Get your health better with the right doctor: -

If you are struggling with musculoskeletal pain or injuries, it is the best time to seek expert advice. Dr. Bharani Kumar Dayanandam, the renowned Orthopaedic Surgeon and Trauma Consultant from Chennai, with over 20 years of experience, is an expert in providing patient-centered treatment plans. He holds an FRCS degree in Trauma and Orthopaedics from the Royal College of Surgeons, UK. He also attended specialized training in knee and shoulder arthroscopy and arthroplasty at the University of Llandough, UK.

Don’t delay your appointment with Dr. Bharani Kumar Dayanandam at Apollo Hospital, Chennai.

A comprehensive guide to the steps involved in Arthroscopic Knee Surgery: -

Pre-operative preparation stage:

1. The initial consultation with an orthopedic surgeon
2. Assessment of the medical history and general health of the patient
3. Pre-operative testsand examinations like blood tests, MRI,ECG, etc.
4. An appointment with anesthesiologist.
5. Medication instructions and dietary restrictions before surgery.

*If you are healthy, you can go home after the procedure and post-operative care. No need for hospitalization.

The procedure stage:

• Unlike open surgery, arthroscopic knee surgery offers minimal invasive but effective surgical procedures.
• The short and time-saving diagnosis and suitable treatment under local anesthesia ensures fast recovery.
• The arthroscope and its high rate of visualizing accuracy helps to provide targeted treatments.
• The tiny incisions are noncomplicated and will be closed with small stitches. In contrast to open surgery, these stitches are small and less prone to infection.
• The knee will be perfectly wrapped to defend against sudden movement.
• It is normal to have tolerable pain and stiffness in the knee after the procedure. The medication and physiotherapy will help to manage the pain.
• The patient will be discharged if he or she is out of any complications within 1 or 2 hours after surgery.

Recovery stage:

Unliketraditional knee surgery, arthroscopic knee surgery offers low risks, complications, and faster recovery.

For the first few weeks,

• Medications are prescribed for pain management, blood clots, and infection.
• Follow-up appointments with the surgeon
• Right exercise and physiotherapy
• Bearing weight
• Driving,athletics and vigorous activities

Long-term recovery,

• Monitor the progress with the surgeon
• Back to normal activities
• Continuing exercises
• Lifestyle modification- avoid stressful activities if your doctor advises.

Benefits of Arthroscopic Knee Surgery: -

• Less and manageable post-operative pain
• Smaller incisions
• Shorter operation time.
• Less open to infection
• Accurate diagnoses and treatments
• Less tissue damage
• Shorter recovery time
• Less scarring
• No hospitalization
• No bed rest
• Speedy return toa normal lifestyle
• The National Library of Medicine provides a database of 95% accuracy of clinical diagnosis in arthroscopy.

So, why not make an appointment today?

Take your step towards your healthy walk with Dr. Bharani Kumar Dayanandan, the skilled Orthopedic surgeon in Chennai.He practices at Shreeya Clinic, Periyar Nagar and he provides his service at Apollo Hospital, Greams Road, Chennai. So, schedule your appointment with the skilled doctor and his expert team.

For Further Reference:

Kindly refer to these resources for your certitude.

• American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. 
• NHS UK