5 Benefits of Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

by Kevin Smith Author

Arthroscopic knee surgery has revolutionized the treatment of orthopedic problems in the knee over the last two decades. Knee surgery was once a major undertaking that involved large incisions, long recovery times, and extensive rehabilitation afterwards to ensure a full return to health.

However, arthroscopic knee surgery in Maple Valley, WA, provides doctors with an effective, less-invasive tool for treating many injuries to the knee. Arthroscopic knee surgery is performed with a device known as an arthroscope that features a camera. It allows doctors to examine conditions in the knee and in some case, provide a surgical remedy for minor knee issues. Read on to learn more about some of the benefits of arthroscopic knee surgery.

Dual-Purpose

Arthroscopic surgery is an excellent tool for orthopedic physicians because it allows them to accomplish two primary goals with one minimally invasive procedure. The arthroscope can provide doctors with a glimpse inside your knee, where they can diagnose the case of pain or reduced range of motion. Then, once diagnosis is made, in some cases a minor repair can be done on the spot, providing quick relief after a short recovery.

Useful for Multiple Conditions

Arthroscopic knee surgery can be used to diagnose a wide variety of knee issues successfully. If you suffer from severe pain in the knee, joint stiffness, damaged cartilage, bone fragments, or Baker’s cysts, arthroscopic knee surgery can give your physician an excellent tool for diagnosing what ails you.

Less Invasive

Arthroscopic surgery is popular in part because it is a minimally invasive procedure. The arthroscope and surgical tools are inserted through a catheter, so the incision is very small. The procedure produces little tissue damage around the knee compared to other knee surgery procedures. In fact, because of the less invasive nature of the procedure, it can usually be completed in less than an hour.

Reduced Risk of Infection

Because the incision used for arthroscopic knee surgery is so small, the risk of post-surgical infection is greatly reduced when compared to traditional knee surgery. The incisions are barely noticeable in most cases and quickly heal, preventing the opportunity for infection to set in.

Shorter Recovery Time

Because there is less overall tissue damage associated with arthroscopic knee surgery, less time is required for recovery. There is less bruising of surrounding tissues, so physical therapy can begin immediately after the procedure. Fewer stitches are needed for closing the incision, which means there is less extensive aftercare required.

Arthroscopic knee surgery in Maple Valley, WA, can be an excellent way to diagnose and treat knee problems in a minimally-invasive, low-impact procedure. If you want to avoid complicated major knee surgery, an arthroscopic procedure may provide a means of relief.