Arthroscopy is one of the most commonly performed orthopedic surgery procedures. More than 4 million arthroscopies are performed each year worldwide. The efficacy of this procedure in knee repair has been aided by advances in technology, as the procedure employs monitors with high definition and cameras with high resolution.
The minimally invasive arthroscopy procedure allows physicians to see into the joint, facilitating the visualization, diagnosis, and treatment of joint problems. The procedure commences with the generation of a small incision in the skin. A pencil-sized camera is then inserted into an injured or damaged joint. Dr. Samimi uses the camera to look into the joint and control the magnification with which he views the joint. His training with this technique makes him a leading expert in arthroscopic techniques for the treatment of routine knee injuries. Some of these procedures are: meniscus repair, ACL reconstruction, and cartilage restoration.
There are several benefits of arthroscopy over more traditional surgical procedures. For example, arthroscopy is usually performed as outpatient surgery, allowing patients to return home following the surgery. It is associated with reduced risks and fewer complications. Further, arthroscopy has a quick recovery time with relatively less postoperative pain and much less scarring.
INDICATIONS
Some specific things knee arthroscopy is most commonly used for are:
- Removal or repair of torn meniscal cartilage
- Trimming of torn pieces of articular cartilage
- Reconstruction of a torn ACL Removal of loose fragments of bone or cartilage
- Removal of inflamed synovial tissue
WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE PROCEDURE?
Dr. Samimi uses knee arthroscopy surgery to see, repair, or remove damaged tissue. Here’s how it works:
First, Dr. Samimi will examine your knee with the arthroscope. He will then make a small incision in your knee and insert this tiny scope. Because the arthroscope is connected to a video monitor that is located in the operating room, Dr. Samimi can clearly see what’s going on inside your knee. He will inspect the tissues of your knee joint and the cartilage, meniscus, and ligaments.
Once Dr. Samimi obtains a thorough understanding of the problem, he will remove or repair damaged tissues with small surgical instruments such as scissors, graspers, or motorized shavers that are inserted into the knee joint through these same small incisions.
Depending on the required treatment, the procedure usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. Afterwards, your incisions with be closed with stitches and dressed with bandages. You will be able to remove the dressing after 2 days, but you should keep the incisions covered with a band-aid for a few more days.
Recovery
Recovery from knee arthroscopy is very short compared to traditional open knee surgery. However, it is still important to follow your orthopedic surgeon’s instructions when you return home.
A formal physical therapy program may improve the long-term function of your knee.
