Knee Arthroscopy Surgery Overview
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various knee conditions. During the procedure, a small camera, known as an arthroscope, is inserted into the knee joint through tiny incisions. This allows the surgeon to visualize the interior of the joint and perform corrective actions, such as removing damaged tissue or repairing cartilage. Knee arthroscopy generally results in less postoperative pain and quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of Knee Arthroscopy Surgery
Preoperative Preparation
Patient Assessment: The patient's medical history is reviewed, including any previous knee surgeries and existing health conditions. A physical examination is performed, along with imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to evaluate knee pathology.
Informed Consent: The patient is informed about the procedure, including risks, benefits, and alternatives. Consent is obtained.
Preoperative Instructions: Patients are advised on restrictions, such as avoiding certain medications (like blood thinners) and fasting guidelines prior to surgery.
Anesthesia Consultation: An anesthesiologist assesses the patient to determine the appropriate anaesthesia method—either general anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia (such as a femoral nerve block).
Surgical Preparation and Positioning
Administer either general anesthesia or regional anesthesia, depending on the patient's condition and the surgeon's preference.
Position the patient comfortably on the operating table, typically in a supine position.
Apply an antiseptic solution to the surgical site to minimise the risk of infection.
Surgical Approach
Make one or two small incisions (usually 0.5 to 1 centimetre) around the knee.
Insert the arthroscope (a small camera) through one incision and create additional ports for surgical instruments if necessary.
Joint Inspection
Use the arthroscope to visualise the interior of the knee joint, including the cartilage, ligaments, and menisci.
Assess any damage or abnormalities that need to be addressed.
Surgical Intervention
Perform necessary procedures such as:
Removal of loose bodies or fragments of cartilage.
Repair of torn menisci or ligaments.
Debridement of damaged cartilage or tissue.
Use specialized instruments to carry out these tasks through the additional ports.
Closure
After the necessary procedures are completed, remove the arthroscope and instruments.
Close the incisions with sutures or steri-strips and apply a sterile dressing to the area.
Postoperative Care
Transfer the patient to the recovery room for monitoring as the anesthesia wears off.
Provide postoperative instructions, including pain management, weight-bearing activity, and physical therapy protocols.
Rehabilitation
Begin prescribed rehabilitation program with a focus on restoring mobility, strength, and functional stability to the knee joint. The rehabilitation timeline may vary based on the specific procedure performed and the patient's overall health, but in most cases patients can expect to gradually return to the activities they enjoyed before surgery.
This straightforward outline covers the fundamental steps in knee arthroscopy surgery. Each case may require specific adjustments based on individual circumstances.