Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat a variety of knee conditions. It involves making small incisions around the knee and inserting a tiny camera called an arthroscope, allowing the surgeon to visualize the inside of the joint on a monitor. This technique enables the surgeon to diagnose issues and perform necessary treatments without the need for a large incision.
Common reasons for knee arthroscopy include:
- Meniscal tears: The meniscus is a rubbery cartilage in the knee that acts as a shock absorber. Tears in the meniscus can cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Arthroscopy can trim or repair the torn meniscus.
- ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears: The ACL is one of the major ligaments in the knee, providing stability. Tears in the ACL are common, especially in athletes, and can lead to instability and difficulty with activities. Arthroscopic surgery can reconstruct the torn ACL using graft tissue.
- PCL (posterior cruciate ligament) tears: Less common than ACL tears, PCL tears can also be addressed with arthroscopic surgery.
- Cartilage damage: Arthroscopy can be used to address various types of cartilage damage, such as loose bodies, cartilage flaps, or chondral defects.
- Synovitis: Inflammation of the synovium, the lining of the knee joint, can cause pain and swelling. Arthroscopy can be used to remove inflamed tissue.
- Patellar (kneecap) disorders: Arthroscopy can help diagnose and treat issues related to the patella, such as patellar tracking problems or cartilage damage.
During knee arthroscopy, the surgeon may perform various procedures depending on the specific diagnosis. These procedures may include:
- Debridement: Removal of damaged tissue, such as frayed cartilage or inflamed synovium.
- Meniscal repair or resection: Repairing torn meniscus tissue or trimming away damaged portions.
- Ligament reconstruction: Reconstructing torn ligaments, such as the ACL, using graft tissue.
- Cartilage repair: Techniques like microfracture, cartilage transplantation, or autologous chondrocyte implantation may be used to address cartilage defects.
- Synovectomy: Removal of inflamed synovial tissue.
- Lysis of adhesions: Breaking up scar tissue within the knee joint to improve mobility.
Recovery from knee arthroscopy is typically faster than traditional open surgery, with most patients able to return to light activities within a few weeks and more strenuous activities within a few months, depending on the extent of the procedure and individual factors. Physical therapy is often recommended to help regain strength, flexibility, and function in the knee.
