Surgeries involving the knee, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage can now be performed through a minimally invasive technique such as arthroscopy. In arthroscopy, the surgeon does not open the knee up for visualization, but uses an arthroscope to help view the knee joint area for operation. The benefits of this type of surgery include less pain, faster recovery, and equally successful results.
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
- This type of surgery is done on the knee joint area using an arthroscope inserted through small incisions.
- Arthroscopic surgeries can be done for minor procedures as well as major surgeries.
- The two main purposes for performing arthroscopic surgeries include correcting or treating acute injuries and for treatment of pain.
- The advantages of arthroscopic surgery include less use of anesthetic, less scarring from incisions, less recovery time, and less pain.
- The success of the arthroscopic surgery is very dependent on the skill of the surgeon.
- Arthroscopic surgeries require advanced skill level from the surgeon or the procedure will be in vain. Thus, patients should do research to find the most qualified doctors to perform the procedure. Doctors with long years of practice are preferred over those who are new to the procedure.
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Recovery Time
- Recovery from knee arthroscopy depends on the type of procedure performed. The lesser invasive the procedure was, the faster the recovery time will be for the patient.
- Patients tend to recover faster because of lesser incisions made compared to a full, open procedure.
- Patients may experience some type of stiffness or immobility but will resolve after a specified time.
- Patients can resume full normal joint activities after a maximum period of 3 months.
- Rehabilitation is often needed and required to hasten joint activity and recovery.
- Of course, it is important to bear in mind that the actual recovery time will depend on a lot of factors, including the individual patient’s healing process. Some people actually tend to heal faster than others.
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Cost
The cost of this procedure varies but differs minimally to the cost of open surgery. Some factors that can affect the cost of surgery include:
- The facility where the procedure is performed.
- The type of anesthesia administered to the patient.
- The extent of the procedure.
- The type of procedure performed.
- The professional fees of the surgeon and anesthesiologist.