Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
An arthroscopy is a surgical technique used to treat a wide variety of knee injuries and disorders. During arthroscopic knee surgery, an orthopedic surgeon makes some small incisions. Saline is pumped into the knee to expand it, making it easier for an orthopedic surgeon to view the knee joint. The surgeon will then insert a probe with a small video camera (arthroscope) into the joint. Pictures are transmitted to a video monitor. The surgeon uses the camera for guidance and to further examine bones and soft tissue. Surgical tools are inserted throught a second small incision and used to repair or correct a condition. Most patients are discharged the day of surgery.
Recovery depends on the type disorder or injury repaired. Pain medication is typically prescribed to manage pain after surgery. A knee brace or crutches are also commonly recommended. Physical therapy may also be recommended to restore strength and motion to the leg and knee muscles.
Knee Conditions & Arthroscopic Surgery
Examples of knee injuries and conditions that can be treated using arthroscopic surgery include the following:
- Torn Meniscus
- Damaged Articular Cartilage
- Torn Ligament (ACL, LCL & PCL)
- Septic Knee
- Loose Bone Fragments
- Inflamed Synovial Tissue
- Baker’s Cyst
- Plica Syndrome
- Misaligned Patella
An arthroscopy may be done for diagnostic purposes, to repair a disorder or injury, or as part of a surgical procedure which may completed using a different surgical technique. While arthroscopic surgery is commonly used to treat knee injuries, open surgery is still used for complex and specific knee injuries and conditions. Knee replacement surgery and Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation are both done as open procedures.
Orthopedic Knee Surgeons in NY & NJ
The Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeons at The Center For Musculoskeletal Disorders are highly experienced repairing knee injuries and disorders using minimally invasive surgical techniques.
If you are experiencing knee pain, swelling, tenderness, or stability issues it’s probably in your best interest to have your condition diagnosed and evaluated as soon as possible to avoid further injury. The majority of our patients do no require a surgical procedure to relieve pain and restore functionality and mobility. Our practice offers a broad range of orthopedic services and treatments.