Knee Arthroscopy
If you have been considering having a knee arthroscopy or just had one, surgery is only the first step. Yes, arthroscopy surgery is minimally invasive and has a shorter recovery time compared to traditional (open) surgery, you still need physical therapy before and after your arthroscopic surgery. This is because physical therapy helps to restore strength and a full range of motion to your knee after surgery. Contact a therapist at Polygon PT today to get started. We can wait to get you back on your feet and moving around without pain.
What is Knee Arthroscopy?
Knee arthroscopy is a medical procedure that is used to diagnose and treat a lot of knee pain problems. Through a small incision or cut to the knee, your surgeon will insert an arthroscope – a tiny camera – into the knee. This allows your surgeon to view the knee joint on a screen. Through other small cuts or incisions, tiny instruments are inserted in the knee to repair or remove the damaged area of the knee joint. Arthroscopy surgery poses less risk compared to open surgery. Since it is minimally invasive, the structures around the knee are retained. There is also less pain and quicker recovery time.
How do I Prepare for a Knee Arthroscopic Surgery?
Your surgeon will tell you how to prepare for your surgery. Most surgeons require gentle exercises before the surgery. Your physical therapist at Polygon PT will help you prepare for the surgery. You may need to stop taking anti-inflammatory medications before the surgery. Be sure to tell your doctor the medications you’re currently taking. You may also be required to stop eating or drinking 6 to 12 hours before surgery. Your doctor will provide information on what you’re allowed to eat or drink.
Why do I Need a Knee Arthroscopy?
If you have knee pain, your surgeon might recommend arthroscopy surgery. This may be done to diagnose the pain or treat the pain, or both. However, not all knee pain can be treated with arthroscopic surgery. Knee arthroscopy can be used to diagnose and treat knee injuries including:
Anterior cruciate ligament. This is a tear to one of the four ligaments of the knee
Torn meniscus (the cartilage between the bones in the knee)
Pieces of torn cartilage that are loose in the joint
Meniscus tear
Knee joint fractures
Baker’s cyst removal
Removal of inflamed synovial tissue
Treatment of kneecap (patella) problems
Treatment of knee sepsis (infection)
What Complications Are Associated With Knee Arthroscopy?
Every surgery has risks. With arthroscopy though, the likelihood of complication is very low. Even if it occurs, it is minor and can be treated easily. Some complications include:
- Infection inside the joint
- Blood clot in the leg
- Stiffness of the knee
- Bleeding inside the knee joint