Arthroscopic knee surgery

Arthroscopy is a surgical process used by orthopaedic surgeons to make a visual diagnosis of the patient's affected joint area, and treat it accordingly. In arthroscopic knee surgery a tiny camera is used to get an insider's view of the knee area of the patient. During the surgery a small incision is made to place the tiny camera/ arthoscope in the knee area. With the assistance of this arthoscope surgeons investigate the problems in the knee.

Arthroscopic knee surgery is best for cases of torn meniscus, misaligned patella and repair of the joint ligaments. In particular it is suggested for the diagnosis as well as treatment of

• Swollen synovium (the lining in the joint)Fractures in the knee bones

• Torn cartilage pieces which are loose in the joint

• Torn meniscus ie. the cartilage between the bones in the knee

• Removal of Baker's Cyst

• Patella/ kneecap which is out of position

How is this surgery done?

Like in case of any other surgery, this one too begins with the injectio of anesthesia. It can be either be general, local or regional in nature. Anesthesia, is followed by the creation of tiny incisions on the knee area. After the incisions are made saline is put through it inorder to expand the knee and so that it is easier for the surgeon to diagnose the joint internally.

Once the problem is diagnosed, tiny tools are inserted through the incisions to rectify it. After the surgery is completed, the saline is drained out of the joint area and the incision is closed with the help of stitches.

Excessive bleeding, risk of blood clot formation, stiffness of the knee, damage to the ligaments as well as stiffness of the knee are some of sutuations which can arise during or after the surgery.

How long does it take to recover from the surgery?

Being a minimally invasive procedure (MIP), the recovery period is not a long one. In fact the patient is discharged that very day after the surgery. The patient might suffer from pain and swelling, for which regular use of ice-packs is recommended. The doctor also suggests some specific instructions and physical exercises which needs to be followed by the patient.

In case you are looking for more details on minimally invasive procedures, arthroscopic knee surgery, knee replacement surgery etc. it can be gained by visiting www.manipalinternationalpatientcare.com or by sending an email at mipc@manipalhospitals.com.