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Minimally Invasive Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is a modern, minimally invasive surgical technique used to investigate and address various conditions within the knee joint. By making only small incisions, orthopaedic surgeons can accurately diagnose and treat problems such as torn cartilage, ligament injuries, and joint disorders, facilitating a faster recovery and reduced discomfort. If knee pain or dysfunction is hindering your everyday activities, reach out to HeptaCare Health. Our skilled team of orthopaedic specialists employs cutting-edge arthroscopic methods to help restore your mobility and enhance your quality of life. Schedule your consultation today for expert care tailored specifically to your needs.

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What Is Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is a surgical intervention that enables orthopaedic specialists to view the knee joint without making a large incision through the use of an arthroscope, a type of endoscope that is inserted into the joint through a small cut. Performed by orthopaedic surgeons, this procedure is typically recommended when less invasive treatments have failed to alleviate joint issues. 

It offers crucial benefits, such as reduced healing time, decreased risk of infection and complications, and minimal scarring. These advantages make it a preferred option for patients needing a faster recovery to resume their daily routines and physical activities.

What Are The Types Of Knee Arthroscopy?

Here are the common types of knee arthroscopy:

  • Partial meniscectomy: Involves the removal of a portion of the torn meniscus to alleviate pain and restore mobility.
  • Meniscus repair: This procedure entails suturing torn meniscal tissue, aimed at preserving knee function.
  • Meniscus transplantation: Replacement of severely damaged meniscus with donor tissue.
  • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction: Replacement of a torn ACL with a graft to restore knee stability.
  • Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction: Similar to ACL reconstruction, this involves replacing a torn PCL to stabilise the knee.
  • Synovectomy: Removal of inflamed synovial tissue which can relieve pain and swelling.
  • Chondroplasty: Trimming or reshaping of damaged articular cartilage to reduce friction and pain in the joint.
  • Removal of loose fragments: Extraction of loose bone or cartilage that may cause pain and hinder joint movement.
  • Patellar treatments: Procedures to address problems with the kneecap, including realignment.
  • Treatment of knee sepsis: Eradication of infection within the knee joint, often involving drainage and washout.

Diagnosis Before Knee Arthroscopy Surgery

Before proceeding with knee arthroscopy, a thorough diagnosis is essential to determine the precise nature of the knee problem and to plan the appropriate surgical intervention. Here’s how specialists typically diagnose conditions warranting knee arthroscopy:

  • Physical examination: An orthopaedic surgeon assesses the knee’s range of motion, stability, and alignment while also looking for signs of pain and swelling.
  • Imaging tests:
    • X-rays: These images help to identify bone fractures and degenerative changes in the knee.
    • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Provides detailed images of both hard and soft tissues within the knee, including ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.
    • Computed tomography (CT) scan: Sometimes used to further analyse the bone and soft tissue structure when more detail is necessary.
  • Patient history: Understanding the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and any previous injuries is crucial for diagnosis.
  • Diagnostic arthroscopy: In some cases, where imaging is inconclusive, a diagnostic arthroscopy itself might be performed to provide a definitive assessment of the knee’s internal structure.

These diagnostic methods are crucial for planning effective treatment and ensuring the success of the knee arthroscopy, tailored to each patient’s specific needs.

What Is The Procedure For Knee Arthroscopy?

This technique involves smaller cuts than traditional knee surgery, leading to potentially quicker recovery times. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of what one can expect during the procedure:

  • Preparation: The patient is typically given either general anaesthesia, which puts them to sleep, or local or regional anaesthesia, which numbs only the knee area.
  • Incision: The surgeon makes small incisions, usually about 1 cm each, around the knee.
  • Insertion of the arthroscope: A tiny camera called an arthroscope is inserted through one of the incisions. This camera projects images onto a monitor, guiding the surgeon’s work.
  • Procedure execution: Depending on the issue, the surgeon may remove or repair damaged tissue using miniature surgical instruments inserted through other incisions.
  • Irrigation and closure: The joint is irrigated to clear out any loose debris. The incisions are then closed with stitches or small bandages.
  • Recovery: Post-operation, patients are moved to a recovery area where they regain consciousness and are monitored for any complications. Recovery varies but generally involves less discomfort and a faster return to daily activities compared to open surgery.

Who Is The Right Candidate For Knee Arthroscopy?

Determining the right candidate for knee arthroscopy is crucial for ensuring successful outcomes. This section outlines the eligibility criteria for the procedure:

  • Persistent knee pain: Candidates often have knee pain that interferes significantly with their daily activities and which hasn’t responded to non-surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or injections.
  • Mechanical symptoms: Individuals experiencing sensations of locking, popping, or instability in the knee might benefit from arthroscopy.
  • Diagnosed joint problems: Ideal candidates may have conditions like torn meniscal cartilage, ligament injuries, or floating fragments of bone or cartilage.
  • Lack of severe arthritis: Patients with minimal to moderate arthritis are better candidates than those with severe arthritis, as arthroscopy is less likely to be beneficial in advanced stages of degenerative joint diseases.
  • Overall health: Suitable candidates should be in good overall health and capable of undergoing anaesthesia and the post-operative rehabilitation process.

These criteria help ensure that the benefits of knee arthroscopy will outweigh the risks, allowing patients to return to their pre-injury level of activity and functionality.

What Are The Benefits Of Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy offers several advantages over traditional open knee surgery, primarily due to its minimally invasive nature. This procedure allows for quicker diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, with reduced trauma to the knee joint and surrounding tissues. Here are the detailed benefits:

  • Reduced pain and swelling: Smaller incisions cause less tissue damage, which typically results in less postoperative pain and reduced swelling.
  • Quicker recovery: Patients generally experience a faster recovery period and can often return to normal activities and work more quickly than with traditional surgery.
  • Less scarring: With incisions only about 1 cm in length, knee arthroscopy leaves minimal scarring compared to open surgery.
  • Increased accuracy: The use of a camera provides surgeons with a clear view of the knee’s interior, which can improve the precision of the diagnosis and the treatment.
  • Lower risk of infection: Smaller incisions reduce the risk of external contaminants entering the joint, which decreases the potential for infections.
  • Outpatient procedure: Many knee arthroscopy procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning the patient can go home the same day.

How To Prepare For Knee Arthroscopy?

Preparation for knee arthroscopy is crucial to ensure a successful outcome and minimise the risk of complications. Here are the steps to prepare for the procedure:

  • Medical evaluation: Undergo a complete medical evaluation including blood tests and, in some cases, ECGs to assess your fitness for surgery.
  • Medication review: Discuss all medications with your surgeon, as some may need to be stopped before surgery.
  • Fasting: Follow the surgeon’s instructions regarding fasting, usually no food or drink after midnight on the day of the surgery.
  • Arranging transportation and help: Since you will be unable to drive immediately following the procedure, arrange for someone to take you home and assist with daily tasks.
  • Pre-surgery instructions: Adhere to specific pre-surgery bathing or cleaning instructions to reduce the risk of infection.

What Are The Recovery Tips And Precactions To Follow After Knee Arthroscopy?

The recovery process following knee arthroscopy can vary, but certain steps can aid in a swift and effective recovery:

  • Pain and swelling management: Use ice packs and prescribed medications to manage pain and reduce swelling.
  • Elevation and rest: Keep the knee elevated and rest as much as necessary to aid the healing process.
  • Use of crutches: Depending on the surgery’s extent, using crutches can be crucial to avoid putting weight on the knee, influencing the knee arthroscopy recovery time crutches period.
  • Physical therapy: Participate in recommended physical therapy sessions to regain strength and mobility.
  • Wound care: Keep the surgical site clean and dry to prevent infection.
  • Watch for complications: Stay alert for any signs of infection like increased redness, swelling, or fever and report these to the doctor.
  • Follow-up visits: Ensure to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and recovery.

These recommendations are essential to ensure a smooth and quick recovery, helping patients return to their usual activities as soon as possible.

Potential Risks Or Complications Associated With Knee Arthroscopy

While knee arthroscopy is generally considered a safe procedure, as with any surgery, it carries certain risks and potential complications. These complications are rare but can occur:

  • Infection: Although rare due to the minimally invasive nature of the surgery, infections can occur at the incision sites or within the knee joint.
  • Blood clots: Patients may develop blood clots in the leg veins, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can pose serious health risks if they travel to the lungs.
  • Bleeding: Bleeding inside the joint can occur, leading to swelling and pain.
  • Damage to knee structures: During the procedure, there’s a small risk of damaging surrounding ligaments, blood vessels, or nerves.
  • Persistent pain: Some patients may continue to experience knee pain even after the surgery.
  • Stiffness: The knee might become stiff, especially if the rehabilitation protocol is not properly followed.
  • Allergic reactions: In rare cases, patients might react to the materials used during surgery, such as the anaesthesia or surgical equipment.

What Is The Cost Of Knee Arthroscopy In India?

  • The knee arthroscopy cost in India varies widely, depending on various factors. The following points impact the overall cost:

    • Type of hospital: The choice between a public or private hospital can significantly affect costs, with private facilities generally being more expensive.
    • Surgeon’s expertise: Fees can vary based on the surgeon’s experience and reputation.
    • Geographical location: Costs can differ based on the city or region, with metropolitan areas often having higher fees.
    • Type of anaesthesia and surgical equipment used: Advanced technology and specific anaesthetic requirements can increase costs.
    • Post-surgical care: Additional costs may include physical therapy, medication, and follow-up visits.

Is Knee Arthroscopy Covered Under Insurance?

In India, knee arthroscopy is generally covered by health insurance when deemed medically necessary, which typically involves cases where the patient experiences ongoing knee problems that have not responded to non-surgical treatments. Coverage usually includes the surgery itself, anaesthesia, hospital charges, and essential post-operative care. 

However, it may not cover advanced surgical techniques or certain disposable items used during surgery if deemed non-essential. Insurance policies vary, so patients should consult with their insurer to understand specific coverages and exclusions related to knee arthroscopy.

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