Arthroscopic procedures are being performed with increasing frequency. These are minimally invasive procedures that allow surgical treatment of the knee, but without opening it. Therefore, the soft tissues around the knee joint are not interfered with. This, in turn, reduces the time needed for recovery after the procedure. What do you need to know about it? What does it look like and when is it carried out?
Most often as a result of trauma
Arthroscopic knee surgery is most often performed as a treatment for an injury to this joint. These injuries can be caused by amateur and professional sports, accidents at work and traffic accidents. also overloading the knee Arthroscopic surgery is also sometimes performed for degeneration of the joint that is not very advanced, but does not respond to drug treatment and rehabilitation.
Indications for the procedure:
- torn meniscus,
- Tear and damage to the anterior and/or posterior cruciate ligament,
- Dislocation or dislocation of the patella,
- Inflammation or damage to the synovial membrane,
- Baker’s cyst removal,
- Removal of fragments of fractured cartilage of the knee joint.
Like through a keyhole
It is often said of arthroscopy that it is a keyhole and closed-door procedure. Let’s explain what this procedure looks like, and you will certainly understand that this comparison is extremely apt. Arthroscopy involves making two (or three) incisions in the skin about 1 cm long. A rigid and thin camera element is inserted through a single incision. A special tool is inserted through successive incisions to manipulate the inside of the knee, but without opening it. This is a very precise procedure that allows for a quick recovery. It is also worth remembering that the scars after surgery are small.
After treatment
Arthroscopy does not require hospitalization. A few hours after the procedure, the patient can already go home. The operated area is simply secured with a bandage. However, this does not mean that the knee joint should be stressed. For at least a week, the patient should walk with elbow crutches, although some sources say that 6 to 8 weeks should be spent on crutches. Depending on the damage to the knees. After the procedure, there will most likely be swelling of the knee, which can last up to two weeks.and sometimes much longer During this time, the joint should not be strained and and activity should be limited. It takes between a month and a year to return to full fitness. This time can be reduced with properly conducted rehabilitation. In the first phase after surgery, it is worth betting on Continuous Passive Motion therapy. It is carried out using CPM rails. They make it possible to generate movement without engaging muscles. Their use reduces swelling and pain. At the same time, it also reduces the stiffness of the knee. All of this contributes to a faster return to activity and fitness before surgery.
