Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
Arthroscopy is a safe method of examining and treating conditions affecting the joints. Most arthroscopic procedures are carried out upon the knee joint, which because of its complexity and design, is the most commonly injured large joint in the body.
The procedure is safe and reliable in expert hands and is commonly known as minimal access surgery or keyhole surgery.
The advantages for the patient include extremely small incisions and ease of mobilisation after the procedure. This means most arthroscopic procedures can be carried out as day case and patients are able to regain a fully functioning knee fairly rapidly.
A lot of knee procedures are made possible through arthroscopy surgery.
Using specifically designed arthroscopic instruments and micro tools we can carry out complex procedures down the arthroscope. The majority of operations performed this way are on the meniscal cartilages within the joint. Additionally, surgery on the anterior cruciate ligament, which is situated in the central part of the knee joint, and repair or smoothing down of articular cartilage (which lines the surfaces of the knee) is also possible as well as complimentary cartilage repair techniques.
How long does it take to recover from an arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is normally carried out as a day case, and you will be able to go home on the same day as your procedure. Most patients are able to return to work and resume daily activities within 1-3 weeks, and you will be able to take part in more strenuous activities approximately six weeks after your operation.
Meniscal Surgery (Menisectomy & Repair)
Meniscal surgery for damaged articular cartilage is carried out by removing the area which is torn, whilst leaving the vast majority of undamaged meniscus intact. This lessens the chance of developing premature osteoarthritic degeneration of the knee. Meniscal damage that involves a large surface area of the structure can easily be repaired.
- Meniscus repair: In this procedure, the surgeon repairs and stitches the torn pieces of meniscal cartilage back together so they can heal. This is considered a meniscus-saving procedure and more useful in young adults. However, because of tear type and blood supply, less than 10%of tears are actually repairable.