Knee scope
Key points
- Knee arthroscopy is a surgery in which a small camera is attached to a video monitor and is used to examine or repair tissues inside the knee joint with special instruments.
- Arthroscopic surgery on the knee involves inserting a small camera (less than 1/4 inch diameter) into the knee joint through a small incision (barely larger than the camera).
- Use of arthroscopy has reduced the need to surgically open the knee joint.
- For a simple meniscal cleaning (debridement), recovery is usually quite rapid.
Alternative names
Knee arthroscopy, Arthroscopic lateral retinacular release; Synovectomy; Patellar debridement
Definition
Knee arthroscopy is a surgery in which a small camera is attached to a video monitor and is used to examine or repair tissues inside the knee joint with special instruments.
Description
Arthroscopic surgery on the knee involves inserting a small camera (less than 1/4 inch diameter) into the knee joint through a small incision (barely larger than the camera). This camera is attached to a video monitor which the surgeon uses to see inside the knee. In some facilities, the patient can choose to watch the surgery on the monitor as well.
For a simple surgical procedure, a local or regional anesthetic is administered, which numbs the affected area, but the patient remains awake and able to respond. For more extensive surgery, general anesthesia may be used. In this case the patient is unconscious and pain-free.
After the camera is inserted, saline is pumped in under pressure to expand the joint and to help control bleeding. Some surgeons also use a tourniquet to prevent bleeding.
After looking around the entire knee for problem areas, the surgeon will usually make 1-4 additional small incisions to insert other instruments. Commonly used instruments include a blunt hook to pull on various tissues, a shaver to remove damaged or unwanted soft tissues, and a burr to remove bone. A heat probe may also be used to remove inflammation (synovitis) in the joint.
At the completion of the surgery, the saline is drained from the knee, the incisions closed, and a dressing applied. Many surgeons take pictures of the procedure from the video monitor to allow the patient to see what was done.
Indications
Arthroscopy may be recommended for knee problems, such as:
- A torn meniscus (either repair or remove)
- Mild arthritis
- Loose bodies (small pieces of broken cartillage) in the knee joint
- A torn or damaged anterior cruciate or posterior cruciate ligament
- Inflamed or damaged lining of the joint (synovium)
- Malalignment of the knee cap (patella)
RISKS
The risks for any anesthesia are:
- Allergic reactions to medications
- Problems breathing
The risks for any surgery are:
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.