Physical Therapy for Injuries

Knee and Shoulder Docs McAllen TX

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery: Reasons, Risks, and Outcomes

Arthroscopic knee surgery is a minimally invasive operation that we perform to diagnose and treat issues in the knee joint. During the procedure, a small incision is made and a little camera, called an arthroscope, is inserted into the knee. Dr. Bill Snyder can then view the inside of the joint on a screen, allowing him to investigate and correct the problem. Read below to learn more about arthroscopic knee surgery.

Reasons for knee arthroscopy

Several knee problems could lead to arthroscopic knee surgery, such as a torn meniscus, torn ligaments, or a misaligned kneecap. Sometimes, we may need the arthroscope to find a diagnosis if it isn’t apparent from an MRI or X-ray.

Knee pain can be treated easily with an arthroscopy. Additional knee injuries that arthroscopic surgery can treat include:

  • Pieces of torn cartilage loose in the joint
  • Removal of a Baker’s cyst
  • Fractures in knee bones
  • Swollen synovium, or lining in the joint

What happens during a knee arthroscopy?

When preparing for surgery, we need to know about any medications or nutritional supplements patients are currently taking. Some medicines may need to be halted for the days or weeks before surgery. Do not eat or drink for six to 12 hours prior to surgery.

Before undergoing the procedure, our anesthesia specialist will give you an anesthetic that numbs the injured area and puts you to sleep. Dr. Snyder will make a few small incisions in the knee and use sterile salt water to expand the joint, which makes it easier to view during surgery.

The arthroscope will be inserted into one of the incisions, and Dr. Snyder will view the joint and area of injury on a monitor in the operation room. After locating the issue, he will use small tools to correct the problem, drain the saline, and close the cuts with stitches.

Possible risks from knee arthroscopy

Even though knee arthroscopy is minimally invasive and comparably less serious than other surgeries, there are still risks. These complications may arise no matter the type of surgery: excessive bleeding, infection, breathing difficulties from anesthesia, or allergic reactions.

Specific risks to knee arthroscopy include bleeding inside the joint, blood clot forming in the leg, infection in the knee, stiffness in the knee, or injury to the cartilage, ligaments, or other areas surrounding the injury. However, these are rare.

Recovery and postoperative expectations

Because this is a minimally invasive, outpatient operation, it usually takes less than an hour for most patients. Ice helps reduce swelling and pain, and elevating the leg will also contribute to comfort and minimized pain.

To regain full range of motion and strength surrounding the healing joint, our rehabilitation specialists will provide a personalized physical therapy care plan. It is advised to take it easy for the first few weeks to months. You should be back to your regular activities and exercise within a few months from your knee arthroscopy.

AOI Advantages

If your injury does require surgery:

On-Site Care

We take care of you on-site, state certified Surgery Center. You don’t have to go to a hospital.

Same Day Service

You will receive same-day service — walk in, walk out – no crutches, no overnight stays.

Minimal Scarring

There will be minimal scarring, with tiny entry points similar to the diameter of a pea.

Quick Recovery

We use minimally invasive surgical procedures that dramatically reduce your recovery time.

Friendly Staff

The same friendly, reliable staff is with you from consultation through rehabilitation.

Comfortable Waiting Area

There is a comfortable waiting area for family & friends, complete with refreshments, snacks and DVD/ Satellite Entertainment Theatre.

Rehabilitation Services

You will benefit from thorough follow-up and physical rehabilitation services.