Knee pain can significantly impact your quality of life, limiting mobility and preventing you from enjoying everyday activities. When conservative treatments don’t provide adequate relief, arthroscopic knee surgery, a minimally invasive procedure that can diagnose and treat various knee conditions through small incisions, might be recommended. This advanced technique can significantly improve your knee health and restore your quality of life.
In this guide, Orthopedic Specialists, S.C., will explain what you need to know about arthroscopic knee surgery, from preparation through recovery.
When Do You Need Arthroscopic Knee Surgery?
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or a limited range of motion, you might be a candidate for a knee arthroscopic procedure. This advanced technique addresses several conditions affecting the knee joint.
Common treatments performed through arthroscopy include the following:
- Torn meniscus repairs requiring removal or suturing of damaged cartilage
- ACL reconstructions after ligament tears from sports injuries
- Knee cartilage treatments for damaged or inflamed surfaces
- Removal of loose fragments causing pain and locking
- Treatment of persistent synovial inflammation
- Diagnosis of unexplained knee pain when imaging is inconclusive
Your surgeon will determine if your condition can benefit from this approach rather than more extensive open surgery.
How To Prepare for Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
Proper preparation can significantly impact your surgical outcome and recovery experience. The weeks leading up to your procedure provide an opportunity to optimize your health and home environment.
Preoperative Planning
Before your minimally invasive knee surgery, your surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and imaging tests. This assessment is crucial in creating a customized surgical plan that addresses your specific condition and ensures you are fully prepared for the procedure.
Follow these home preparation tips for an effective recovery:
- Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and electrical cords.
- Create a comfortable recovery space on your main floor.
- Arrange for transportation home after surgery.
- Stock up on ice packs for post-operative swelling.
- Prepare easy-to-access meals for your recovery period.
- Gather comfortable clothing that fits over bandages.
Medication Adjustments
Your doctor will provide specific instructions about which medications to continue or temporarily stop before surgery. Typically, blood-thinning medications, including aspirin and certain supplements, must be discontinued several days before your procedure.
If you smoke, your doctor will strongly encourage you to quit at least two weeks before your procedure. Smoking impairs healing and increases the risk of complications throughout your recovery process.
What Happens on the Day of Your Knee Surgery?
On the day of your arthroscopy surgery, you’ll arrive at the surgical facility several hours before your scheduled procedure time. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can accommodate a bandaged knee afterward.
Consider this pre-surgery checklist:
- Follow all fasting instructions (typically no food/drink after midnight).
- Bring your insurance card and identification.
- Leave valuables and jewelry at home.
- Arrive at the designated time (usually one to two hours before surgery).
- Have your transportation arrangements confirmed.
- Bring any prescribed medications or medical devices.
The surgical team will clean and prepare your knee area. You’ll meet with your anesthesiologist to discuss sedation options before heading to the operating room.
Understanding the Knee Arthroscopy Process
Knowing what happens during your knee joint scoping can help ease anxiety and set realistic expectations. The entire arthroscopic knee surgery typically takes less than an hour unless complex repairs are needed.
Step-by-Step Breakdown
Your surgeon makes several incisions around the knee, each about the size of a buttonhole. An arthroscope with a tiny camera is inserted through one incision to provide a clear view of the inside of your knee joint.
The images are displayed on the monitor, allowing your surgeon to examine the structures with remarkable detail. Additional small instruments are inserted through other incisions to perform necessary repairs or treatments.
The Role of Anesthesia
The type of anesthesia used in your arthroscopic knee surgery will depend on several factors, including the expected complexity of your surgery and your medical history. Your anesthesiologist will discuss these options with you beforehand, ensuring you are comfortable and well-informed about this aspect of the procedure.
Most arthroscopic procedures use either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. You’ll be closely monitored throughout the procedure to ensure your comfort and safety.
The Knee Arthroscopy Recovery Time and Post-Surgery Care
Your recovery journey begins immediately following arthroscopic knee surgery. Understanding what to expect helps you prepare mentally and physically for the healing process.
Pain Management Strategies
Your doctor will prescribe appropriate pain medication to keep you comfortable during the initial recovery period. Ice therapy plays a crucial role in managing post-surgical discomfort.
Finding the best sleeping position after knee arthroscopy can significantly impact your comfort. Many patients find elevating the operated leg with pillows while lying on their back to be the most comfortable during the initial recovery phase.
Incision Care Instructions
Doctors usually recommend the following specific wound care instructions after surgery. This usually includes the following:
- Keep surgical dressings clean and dry as instructed.
- Follow specific showering instructions from your doctor.
- Avoid soaking in bathtubs or pools until approved.
- Watch for signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, drainage, or fever).
- Change dressings according to your surgeon’s protocol.
- Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice any concerning symptoms.
Your surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment to check your incisions and remove any stitches if necessary. This visit typically occurs within two weeks after surgery.
Exercises After Knee Arthroscopy Surgery
Knee arthroscopy recovery time depends on the specific procedure performed and your healing factors. Most patients can resume normal daily activities within several weeks, though complete recovery may take longer.
Your physiotherapist will guide you through appropriate exercises after knee surgery and monitor your progress to ensure optimal healing. Here are some generally recommended exercises for a faster recovery:
- Gentle ankle pumps to promote circulation
- Quadriceps sets to maintain thigh muscle strength
- Straight leg raises, when approved by your doctor
- Progressive range-of-motion exercises
- Gradually increased weight-bearing activities
- Stationary cycling when comfortable
Let Orthopedic Specialists, S.C.’s Arthroscopy Specialists Help You Recover
We understand that facing arthroscopic knee surgery can feel overwhelming, but with proper preparation and expectations, most patients experience excellent outcomes. At Orthopedic Specialists, S.C., our team specializes in minimally invasive procedures designed to get you back to your active lifestyle quickly and safely.
If you’re experiencing knee pain or have questions about arthroscopic knee surgery, contact Orthopedic Specialists, S.C., today at (630) 782-9600 for a consultation with our expert team.
