The Technique
Arthroscopy, sometimes referred to as keyhole surgery knee, is making a few tiny skin incisions to insert a tiny camera into a joint. By relieving fluid build-up inside a joint using small surgical devices, the operation can be used to heal some illnesses like Baker's Cyst and assess joint damage after traumas or to uncover underlying problems like osteoarthritis. Oxford Ortho can explain everything in detail so you can comprehend the process.
The surgery can take up to 45 minutes and is often done under general anesthesia, although it can also be done under local or spinal anesthesia. The patient will discuss this with one of our anesthetists to decide the best course of action. The area is first gently cleaned with an antibacterial solution after which a minor incision is made to accommodate the placement of the arthroscope.
For the insertion of sensitive surgical equipment to further check the joint, more incisions will be made. Using an arthroscope, the surgeon will examine the interior of the joint and cut out any unwanted or diseased tissue. The length of the recovery period will depend on the extent of the surgery's therapy since the affected area will need more time to mend if more damaged tissue has to be removed.
The arthroscope is removed from the joint, along with any fluid, when the procedure is complete. The incisions are closed with a few stitches or strips of surgical tape before being wrapped in a sterile dressing. According to NHS research, serious complications like infection in the knee joint only occur in one out of every 100 arthroscopic and keyhole procedures. This method is less invasive than open surgery since it uses small incisions and surgical tape to prevent long-term scars on the patient.
The Recovery Procedure
The type of surgery you had, your general health, how well you took care of yourself afterward, and how much physical activity you engaged in following the procedure all affect how quickly you recover from a knee arthroscopy. One's lifestyle and place of employment have an impact on this. These factors may cause a patient's recovery time to range from a few days to many months.
After the procedure, you'll need some time to recover from the effects of the general or local anesthesia utilized. It is advised that you have someone you trust drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours of recovery because patients typically recover from anesthesia in 48 hours. This is because anesthesia may cause you to feel sleepy and lightheaded for a few days after surgery, but this will pass in a day or two.
Following surgery, it is common for the joint to be uncomfortable; in this situation, your doctor may prescribe medication. After surgery, the majority of patients may leave the hospital that day or the following morning. If feasible, elevate the joint after surgery to hasten recovery. Your doctor, nurse, or physiotherapist will give you advice on aftercare and rehabilitation.
Compression bandages are routinely provided to patients to encourage blood flow and reduce swelling around the injured area. Crutches and a walker may be needed following surgery to facilitate movement while recovering. This will also reduce the possibility of long-term damage after surgery.
The healing process must include physical therapy, both for the actual treatment and for any underlying health issues that may have been identified. After a physical therapist has examined you, they may recommend additional sessions or home exercises to help you heal more quickly and increase joint mobility. These sessions and exercises might take up to a few weeks, depending on the rate of recovery.