The Arthroscopic Surgery Difference
Compared to traditional knee surgery, arthroscopic surgery is considered a “less invasive” surgery because only a few small incisions are made around the knee. These small cuts allow the surgeon to place a tiny camera in the knee. The camera allows the physician to see exactly what the damage to the joint is. Once the doctor visualizes the damage, they are able to insert very small surgical instruments through the camera to repair the damage.
The use of only small incisions and tiny tools means that the surgical treatment of knee injuries and conditions using arthroscopic surgery causes less damage than traditional surgery. In fact arthroscopic knee surgery can be performed using only local anesthetic, though spinal and general anesthesia are also options. The recovery from arthroscopic surgery is typically easier and quicker than traditional surgery. Shorter recovery still means that there is a certain amount of therapy and recovery that is needed to get the joint back to, or close to, normal functioning.
Conditions Treated By Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
Not every knee problem is treatable through arthroscopic surgery. The typical conditions and injuries that are treatable through knee arthroscopy are:
- Damaged anterior or posterior cruciate ligaments (ACL & PCL)
- Misalignment of the patella
- Meniscus tears
- Inflammation of the synovium (lining if the joint)
- Specific types of fractures
- Baker’s cyst removal
- Removal of loose or broken cartilage and bone
- Cartilage microfracturing
Post Knee Surgery Care and Expectations
Arthroscopic surgery causes much less damage than traditional knee surgeries, which means less pain, swelling, and shorter recovery. In many cases the surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning the patient is able to go home the same day the surgery is performed. There usually is some swelling that typically disappears between a week and a week and half after surgery. For a short time after surgery most patients need to use crutches and are not able to drive which keeps pressure off of the joint. Possibly most important for post surgical recovery is physical therapy. To regain lost mobility is important for the patient to take part in therapy and perform the exercises they are given.
The Best Choice For Knee Arthroscopy In Chicago
The orthopedic surgeon’s at the Illinois Bone and Joint Institute are among the top arthroscopic surgeons in the country. If you or a loved one is considering knee arthroscopy, IBJI is the right choice for orthopedic surgery in the Midwest. Make an appointment today with one of our orthopedic surgeons and get back to living.
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