Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that involves accessing the joint cavity with a camera, or arthroscope, through small incisions in the joint region. Arthroscopy can be diagnostic, revealing the cause of knee pain or other issues, or therapeutic, addressing the identified problem. Successful execution of the procedure requires the careful selection of a trained specialist.
Why is knee arthroscopy performed?
The most common indications for arthroscopy include:
- Meniscus injury;
- Anterior and posterior cruciate ligament injuries;
- Injuries to parts of the knee’s articular cartilage;
- Frequent inflammations in the knee joint;
- Baker’s cyst – a fluid-filled sac at the back of the knee joint;
- Fractures of the bones forming the knee joint.
How is the preparation for the surgery done?
Before the operation, an examination and consultation with the orthopedic specialist are necessary, along with adjusting the patient’s personal therapy in accordance with any accompanying diseases.
Based on the doctor’s advice, a temporary discontinuation of blood-thinning medications may be necessary. Depending on the type of anesthesia, fasting from food and fluids is usually required for 12 hours before the surgery. If same-day discharge is planned, it is advisable to have a family member accompany the patient.
How many arthroscopic surgeries are performed annually at Atlas Hospital?
Atlas Hospital performs between 200 and 300 of these surgeries each year.
How is knee arthroscopy performed?
Through several small incisions (5-10mm) above the joint, using elegant instruments and a camera with 5 to 10 times magnification, every part of the joint cavity can be accessed to identify the cause of the problem. These small incisions, compared to traditional surgeries, allow for quick recovery, reduce the risk of infection, and enable a return to regular activities within a few days.
Arthroscopy is the gold standard in diagnosing and treating sports injuries to the knee, facilitating the earliest return to training and other activities.
The advantage of the magnified camera minimizes the possibility of errors in experienced hands, leading to the observation of the tiniest details during the procedure. Arthroscopy can be performed under local, regional, spinal, and rarely general anesthesia, with the final decision made by the anesthesiologist in consultation with the orthopedic specialist.
Are complications possible?
Complications after arthroscopy are rare and may include bleeding within the joint capsule, wound infection, and potential side effects of anesthesia.
What is the recovery process after knee arthroscopic surgery?
In the immediate postoperative period, it is advised to follow the acronym:
R – rest – recommended rest and avoidance of strenuous activities;
I – ice – applying ice to the operated knee;
C – compress – wearing an elastic bandage or brace;
E – elevate – raising the limb above the level of the torso.
Adhering to these rules reduces the risk of swelling and pain.
If these measures are insufficient, based on the doctor’s advice, pain relievers (analgesics) may be recommended. Depending on the indication for arthroscopy, immobilization of the joint and the use of walking aids (crutches, walker) may be necessary, along with starting regular physical therapy as early as possible, sometimes on the day of the surgery!
The cost of knee arthroscopy is 236,000 dinars.
All costs are included in the price (comprehensive preoperative preparation – laboratory tests, internist examination, EKG, X-ray, anesthesiologist examination, surgery, one day of hospitalization, and follow-up).
