Introduction
What is knee arthroscopy?
The knee arthroscopy procedure is a relatively new surgical technique that utilizes a minimally invasive approach for diagnosing and treating conditions involving the knee joint. This “keyhole” surgical technique introduces a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized surgical instruments through small incisions to examine and repair any damaged structures within and surrounding the knee joint. Patients and surgeons alike often favor the arthroscopic method due to the decreased risk of blood loss and infection during the procedure as well as the limited pain and inflammation following the procedure. Dr. Frank McCormick, orthopedic knee doctor, treats patients in Orlando, West Palm Beach County, and surrounding Florida communities, who are in need of knee arthroscopy.
What types of knee injuries can be repaired arthroscopically?
The arthroscopic surgical technique can successfully repair a number of various knee injuries and conditions, including:
- Knee Arthritis and Osteoarthritis
- Cruciate Ligament Tear
- Collateral Ligament Tear
- Knee Fractures
- Meniscus Tear
- Meniscus Deficiency
What happens during a knee arthroscopy?
Because of the minimally invasive nature of the arthroscopic technique, the majority of arthroscopic knee surgeries are performed as outpatient procedures. The patient is first placed under anesthesia and situated in the appropriate position on the operating table. When stabilized, a number of small incisions are created by Dr. McCormick above and below the knee joint. The arthroscope (small camera) is introduced through a portal and the images are relayed onto a monitor allowing Dr. McCormick to meticulously analyze the bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the knee joint. Visualization of these structures is enhanced by a sterile solution that is continuously circulated throughout the procedure. The specialized surgical instruments are then inserted to perform the necessary corrections documented by Dr. McCormick’s intra-operative findings. When the repairs have been completed, the arthroscopic and surgical tools are withdrawn from the knee joint and the incisions are closed with sutures or steri-strips.
What is the recovery period like after arthroscopic knee surgery?
The recovery period following arthroscopic knee surgery is greatly affected by the patient’s willingness to comply with the post-operative care instructions set forth by Dr. McCormick. While minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as knee arthroscopy, typically shorten the recovery timeframe, the bones, tendons, and ligaments still take the same amount of time to heal. The majority of patients in Orlando, West Palm Beach County, and the surrounding Florida communities can expect a return to normal daily activities approximately 6 to 8 weeks following arthroscopic knee surgery. The following can generally be anticipated during the recovery process:
- Depending on the type of anesthesia administered, the repaired knee joint may continue to feel numb for several hours after surgery.
- An immobilization device, such as a knee brace, will be applied to the repaired knee immediately following surgery to protect the tissues while they heal.
- Weight-bearing will be limited during the first weeks after surgery and will be assisted with crutches or a walker.
- Any post-operative pain and inflammation can be managed with a combination of rest, ice, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). If pain continues to break through with oral medications, Dr. McCormick may prescribe a stronger pain medication to be taken as directed.
- The success of arthroscopic knee surgery is dramatically higher for patients that adhere to and complete a physical rehabilitation program. Dr. McCormick will make his recommendations for the timing of physical therapy based on his intra-operative findings.
For more information on meniscus tears of the knee, or the excellent treatment options available, please contact the office of Frank McCormick, MD, orthopedic knee specialist serving Orlando, West Palm Beach County, and surrounding Florida communities.
