Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is the most common surgery in orthopaedics. A small camera is used to evaluate the intra-articular tissues. This method gives the physician very clear and precise information. It is very useful in diagnosis and treatment. Every year, 4 million people in the United States undergo arthroscopy.

How is knee arthroscopy performed?
It is performed by opening a very small hole on both sides just below the kneecap. A camera is inserted through the hole and all anatomical structures inside the knee (meniscus, anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, joint surfaces) are examined on its monitor.

Preparation for Knee Arthroscopy Surgery
Before the operation, you should inform him about your existing systemic diseases and medications you are taking. He will then ask you to have a blood test to check your blood values and heart radiographs.

How long will I stay in the hospital for knee arthroscopy?
All arthroscopic knee surgeries are day surgery. Patients can usually be discharged the same day or stay overnight in the hospital.

How is anesthesia performed in knee arthroscopy surgery?
Regional anesthesia (spinal-below-lumbar) is usually applied and general anesthesia is rarely used. However, the anesthesiologist will decide on the most appropriate method for you. Since the patient is awake in below the waist surgeries, he/she will have the opportunity to watch the surgery on the monitor.

What can be done in knee arthroscopy surgery?
The most common treatments in knee arthroscopy surgery;

– Repair of torn menisci and/or cleaning of the tear,
– Torn anterior cruciate ligament repairs, (click for anterior cruciate ligament repair)
– Shaving of damaged articular cartilage and cartilage transplants,
– Removal of intra-articular free cartilage and bone fragments,
– Elimination of inflammatory tissues
– Loosening of tense ligaments and similar interventions.

When will I recover after knee arthroscopy?

Since the procedure is closed, recovery is fast. Your recovery time will be different according to the procedure performed.

But in general there are some things to be aware of;
– Knee swelling; for a few days after surgery, support your leg with a pillow as much as possible and keep it straight and elevated, often apply ice over the bandage to help reduce pain and swelling.
– Wound Care; dressings are done when you leave the hospital and you are discharged with a bandage. There are usually very few stitches, the wound should not be soaked before the stitches are removed. One dressing every 3-4 days will be enough. In the 2nd week control, the stitches are removed.
– Standing Up and Giving Load to the Leg; After arthroscopy, many patients can stand up with underarm crutches or assistive devices. Ask when you will give full load according to the procedure performed.
– Driving; Talk to your physician before driving and this depends on many factors;

• The operated knee
• Whether the car is automatic or not
• The surgical procedure
• Pain level
• Whether you use narcotic painkillers
• Your ability to control your knee
• However, patients are usually able to drive within 1 to 3 weeks.

Situations that require you to contact me urgently after knee arthroscopy surgery;

•  Fever
• Persistent and increasing redness and heat around the knee
• Current

• Persistent and increasing pain

• Severe swelling
• Increasing pain radiating to the back of the knee and calf