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When Should One Undergo Knee Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive operation that involves a general anesthetic and is done on an outpatient basis. It is mostly done to treat a  torn meniscus or a torn cartilage. However, although the most common ones, these aren’t the only conditions treated through a knee arthroscopy. There are a few others that call for arthroscopic surgery, depending on the medical condition of the patient. This blog explores them.

What is Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that enables the diagnosis and treatment of knee joint problems. The surgery involves pumping saline fluid into the knee to stretch it and making two small incisions. It includes either local anesthesia (to numb only your knees), regional anesthesia (to numb your body from below the waist region), and general anesthesia (to put you to sleep).

One of the incisions enables the surgeons to insert the camera (the arthroscope to view the knee joint’s interior on the screen), and the other allows to insert the surgical tools inside it. Further, it helps surgeons to investigate the problem and, if needed, correct it using small instruments. Once the surgery is over, surgeons drain the saline fluid and close the incisions with stitches.

When do you Undergo Knee Arthroscopy?

The need to undergo knee arthroscopy varies depending on the case. Doctors diagnose the condition and then recommend patients to go for it. But usually, the following are the reasons that call for arthroscopic knee surgery.

  • Damaged or swollen lining of the joint (synovium)
  • Torn or damaged ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament
  • Torn or damaged (PCL)(Posterior Cruciate Ligament)
  • Removal of a Baker’s cyst
  • Fractures of knee bones
  • Tiny pieces of the broken cartilage in the knee joint
  • Treat an out of position kneecap

How to Prepare for a Knee Arthroscopy?

You do not have to worry about preparing for knee arthroscopy, as your doctor or surgeon will advise you on how to prepare for it. Nevertheless, you must inform your surgeon and doctor about any over-the-counter medications, prescriptions, or supplements that you may be taking already. You may have to stop taking a few medications, including ibuprofen, or aspirin a few weeks before you undergo the surgical procedure.

You must also not eat or drink for around six to twelve hours before the knee arthroscopy. Your surgeon may give you pain medication for any pain or discomfort that the surgery may cause, in case required.

What About Recovery After Undergoing a Knee Arthroscopy?

The recovery significantly depends on the condition treated through knee arthroscopy. Most patients are advised to reduce their athletic activities or rigorous movements of knees for about four weeks. Besides, although a lot of patients feel better and experience a considerable reduction in knee pain, they cannot expect the knees to return to their natural or original condition.

Want the Best Knee Pain Consultation? Visit Ranka Hospital!

Ranka Hospital is one of the best orthopedic hospitals in Pune. The hospital offers the best, case-specific, and appropriate piece of consultation on knee pain and surgeries or treatment related to it.

Ranka’s team of orthopedic doctors and surgeons leverage their experience and the latest diagnostic technologies, coupled with an accurate arthroscopic treatment, to ensure optimized results for their patients. Besides, the team recommends patients pre and post-surgical practices to help them better deal with the surgery. For detailed consultation and to book an appointment, connect with Ranka Hospital at +91 20 2426 1600.

Reference Links

https://www.trihealth.com/dailyhealthwire/health-topics/orthopedics/do-i-need-arthroscopic-knee-surgery-

https://www.healthline.com/health/knee-arthroscopy#procedure

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