Knee Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat issues within the knee joint. It involves inserting a small camera (arthroscope) through a tiny incision, allowing the surgeon to view the inside of the knee and perform necessary repairs.
Indications for Knee Arthroscopy:
● Knee pain and swelling: When these symptoms are persistent and unexplained by other tests.
● Torn meniscus: If the meniscus (cartilage in the knee) is damaged, it may require repair or removal.
● Ligament damage: To treat torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or posterior cruciate ligament (PCL).
● Knee joint infection: If infection is suspected, the procedure allows for both diagnosis and treatment.
● Chronic knee issues: Such as knee osteoarthritis that do not respond to conservative treatments.
How Knee Arthroscopy Works:
● Under local or general anesthesia, small incisions are made in the knee, and a small camera (arthroscope) is inserted to visualize the joint. Surgical instruments are used to repair, remove, or examine damaged tissue.
Normal Range:
● Healthy knee tissue should show smooth cartilage, intact ligaments, and normal joint structures.
Abnormal Test Significance:
● Torn ligaments or meniscus: Indicating the need for surgical repair or removal.
● Inflammation: Signs of arthritis or other chronic conditions.
● Cartilage damage: May indicate osteoarthritis or joint degeneration.
Management Based on Results:
● For torn ligaments: Treatment includes ligament repair or reconstruction using arthroscopic techniques.
● For arthritis: Debridement or cartilage repair may be performed, or joint replacement may be considered in severe cases.
Price in India:
● Approx. ₹25,000 – ₹75,000 for knee arthroscopy, depending on complexity and hospital.
FAQs
How long is the recovery after knee arthroscopy?
Recovery time is generally quick, with most patients resuming normal activities within 1-3 weeks.
Is knee arthroscopy painful?
The procedure is done under anesthesia, and there is minimal post-operative pain, usually managed with medications.
Disclaimer: Knee arthroscopy is a safe procedure, but like all surgeries, it carries risks, including infection and complications from anesthesia.
How HealthPil Can Help:
At HealthPil, we provide access to orthopedic specialists who can guide you through knee arthroscopy and provide post-surgical care for a successful recovery.