Unveiling The Benefits: Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

An Innovative Approach To Knee Surgery

The knee is a complex joint that is prone to injury. Athletes can suffer ligament tears, meniscus damage, or fractures. Degeneration is also a common occurrence, with adults subject to osteoarthritis that causes pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Many of these cases require surgery to restore optimal function. Instead of traditional surgery, doctors and patients are opting for arthroscopic knee surgery. This innovative approach has multiple benefits and can help with the knee’s long-term function.

Traditional vs arthroscopic knee surgery

Open or traditional surgery is the most common procedure used by orthopedic surgeons. The surgery requires an incision several inches long on the knee. The surgeon then moves tissue and muscle to access the damaged location. From here, surgical tools can repair ligaments, remove cartilage, or perform other procedures. Arthroscopic knee surgery uses an arthroscope. This is a long, thin device with a light and high-powered camera at the end. Through an incision of less than an inch, the scope can relay the inside of the knee on an external monitor. The surgeon can then use another 1-2 incisions of similar size to insert small surgical tools to complete the procedure.

Let’s talk about the benefits

Arthroscopy has many benefits, making this surgery the preferred option for patients and doctors. The procedure uses smaller incisions, meaning less blood loss and a more efficient process. Most arthroscopic surgeries are performed in an outpatient setting, meaning the patient can leave the hospital on the same day. The elective nature of arthroscopic surgery means the patient can visit an ambulatory surgical center (ASC) at a convenient time and date. This technique also doubles as a diagnostic procedure. The surgeon can use a single incision to view parts of the knee that aren’t visible on x-rays.

Keep your tissue intact

Unlike traditional surgery, arthroscopy does not cut, move, or damage extensive tissue or muscle to access the joint. As a result, there is significantly less postoperative pain and blood loss. The scope can work around tissues and project the joint with improved accuracy and visualization. Smaller incisions also mean more minor scars, making healing more cosmetically pleasing. Surgeons can also work with confidence, making the procedure more manageable. As the tissue stays intact, the risk of infections and complications is reduced significantly.

Enjoy faster recovery times

Knee surgery requires extensive recovery times along with physical therapy (PT) treatment. The patient will need time for inflammation to decrease and the surgical scars to heal. This process adds to an already long timeline. With arthroscopic surgery, the recovery time decreases due to the smaller incisions and minimal disruption of tissue. There is less pain, swelling, and inflammation. In many cases, the patient can start rehabilitation exercises sooner, leading to faster recovery. This advantage is particularly important to athletes who want to return to sports as quickly as possible. Arthroscopic knee surgery also helps with total knee replacements, allowing individuals to return to work and daily activities faster.

Get the gold standard in knee procedures

Knee surgery is essential for diagnosing and repairing moderate to severe injuries that limit overall function. The traditional means, while beneficial, have drawbacks that impact healing and recovery. Arthroscopic surgery, using minimally invasive means, causes less pain and scarring and opens the door to faster recovery. Of course, with any procedure, there are risks, and arthroscopy is no exception. The surgeon will discuss the possible complications and ways to resolve any issues. Whatever the condition, trust that arthroscopic repair can turn things around quickly and effectively.