Knee pain can significantly impact your quality of life. While many treatment options exist, knee arthroscopy has emerged as a preferred method for diagnosing and treating a variety of knee conditions. At Advanced Ortho and Spine, we specialize in providing advanced knee care, including arthroscopic procedures.
In this post, we’ll delve into what knee arthroscopy entails and explore how it can benefit you.
What is Knee Arthroscopy?
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves using a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments to examine and treat knee problems. A tiny incision is made, and the arthroscope is inserted into the knee joint, subsequently allowing the surgeon to visualize the inside of the knee joint with remarkable precision.
Common Knee Conditions Treated with Arthroscopy
Knee arthroscopy is effective in treating a wide range of knee conditions, including:
Meniscus Tears
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that functions as a shock absorber within the knee. Consequently, tears in the meniscus can result in pain, swelling, and locking of the knee. Arthroscopy can effectively repair or remove the damaged portion of the meniscus.
Cartilage Damage
Articular cartilage, the smooth tissue covering the ends of bones in the knee joint, can be damaged. Often, this damage leads to pain and stiffness. In certain cases, arthroscopic procedures can be employed to treat cartilage defects.
ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Tears
The ACL is a crucial ligament in the knee that contributes to joint stability. Arthroscopic surgery is commonly utilized to repair or reconstruct the ACL.
MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament) Injuries
The MCL is another important ligament in the knee. Arthroscopic surgery can be used to repair or reconstruct the MCL in certain cases.
Removal of Loose Bodies
Occasionally, fragments of bone or cartilage can become loose within the knee joint. These loose bodies can cause pain and clicking. Arthroscopy can be used to remove these irritating bodies.
Osteoarthritis (in early stages)
While arthroscopy cannot cure osteoarthritis, it can be used to treat certain symptoms, such as removing bone spurs or damaged cartilage.
Benefits of Knee Arthroscopy
- Minimally invasive: Smaller incisions typically lead to less pain, reduced scarring, and a faster recovery time.
- Accurate diagnosis: The arthroscope provides a clear view of the knee joint, which enables a precise diagnosis.
- Effective treatment: A wide range of knee conditions can be successfully treated through arthroscopic surgery.
- Shorter hospital stay: In many cases, patients can return home on the same day or the following day.
- Faster recovery: Compared to traditional open surgery, recovery time is generally shorter.
About the Arthroscopy Procedure
During the procedure, the surgeon will create small incisions around your knee. Then they will insert the arthroscope and surgical instruments through these incisions. The surgeon will meticulously examine your knee joint, identify the underlying issue, and perform the necessary repairs.
Recovery from Knee Arthroscopy
Recovery time varies based on the complexity of the procedure. Your surgeon will provide specific post-operative instructions. In general, you can expect to use crutches for a short period, and physical therapy is crucial for a successful recovery to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
In Conclusion
Knee arthroscopy offers a promising solution for many knee problems. With its minimally invasive approach and effective treatment, it can help you regain mobility and enjoy an active lifestyle. Contact Advanced Ortho and Spine today to learn more about how knee arthroscopy can benefit you.
Advanced Ortho and Spine: Your Partner in Knee Care
At Advanced Ortho and Spine, our experienced team of orthopedic surgeons is dedicated to providing exceptional knee care. We utilize the latest advancements in arthroscopic surgery to deliver optimal outcomes for our patients. If you’re experiencing knee pain, schedule a consultation with us to discuss your treatment options.
Request an appointment online or call us at 615.885.0200 to schedule yours today.
Dr. Christopher Cook is a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialist at Advanced Ortho and Spine. He provides a full spectrum of Joint Replacement, Sports Medicine, and Shoulder & Upper Extremity services. Contact us today for more information or to request an appointment. Contact us today for more information or to request an appointment.
Dr. Daniel Hagaman is a Fellowship-Trained Orthopaedic Surgeon & Sports Medicine Specialist at Advanced Ortho and Spine. He specializes in a range of orthopaedic conditions and treatments including Knee Arthroscopy, Knee Ligament & Cartilage Repair, Shoulder Arthroscopy, Hip Arthroscopy, Orthobiologistics, and more. Contact us today for more information and to request an appointment.
With two locations near Nashville in Mt. Juliet and Hermitage, Advanced Ortho and Spine provides patients with high-quality, personalized care while advancing orthopaedic excellence. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule your appointment.
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