American Medical Association

 

 

 

  


A knee arthroscopy is a procedure used to look directly into the knee joint so a surgeon can confirm the level of damage. The arthroscopy may be recommended for various problems such as:

  • Meniscus Tear: Can be caused by an abrupt twist or constant bending. Possible effects: knee pain and swelling with possible catching or locking in the joint when bent.
  • Ligament Tears: Caused by falling, twisting, or a sharp hit. Possible effects: Knee pain and swelling with weakness in the joint.
  • Cartilage Wear: Caused by aging or damage to joint. Possible effects: Grinding and rigidity.
  • Patella Problems: Caused by aging, abuse, or a straight blow. Possible effects: May cause uneven wearing and discomfort.

To begin with, the patient is given an anesthetic. In most cases, a general anesthetic is used for orthopedic cases. Next, the surgeon will make a few incisions around the knee (A) and a sterile fluid is inserted through one incision to enlarge the knee joint. In the other incision, the arthroscope is inserted (B). The arthroscope is a tiny fiberoptic scope that consists of a tiny lens, a light source, and is connected to a video camera. This camera allows the surgeon to have clear visibility of the joint so that all damage can be seen. The surgeon than begins treatment by using shavers or a laser. Once the procedure is complete, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures (C).


(A)


(B)

(C)

Recovery for arthroscopy varies on the exact surgical procedure and injury. For example, an arthroscopy ligament reconstruction will be a longer recovery for the patient than arthroscopic extraction of a loose body. Generally, the physician will be able to give the patient more exact recovery times.

Benefits to arthroscopy over arthrotomy is that arthroscopy is much less traumatic to the muscles, ligaments, and tissues and also includes much smaller incisions. In an arthrotomy the knee is surgically opened with a long incision. Furthermore, with an arthroscopy, there is faster healing, more rapid recovery, and less scarring. Arthroscopy procedures can also be done on an outpatient basis where as an arthrotomy is an inpatient procedure.