What are the benefits of knee arthroscopy surgery?
Knee arthroscopy surgery is keyhole surgery that is used to explore, diagnose and treat problems in the knee joint. This is done with the use of an arthroscope, a small surgical tool that has a camera attached. Only very small cuts are required during keyhole surgery, which means this type of surgery offers many benefits compared to more invasive knee procedures. Below we explore the many benefits of knee arthroscopy surgery.
Minimal time in theatre
One of the biggest benefits of this surgery is that theatre time is much reduced. The procedure can be as short as 30 minutes (if only used for diagnostic purposes), with the maximum lasting roughly two hours. It is far less invasive, which means that knee arthroscopy surgery can be carried out under a local anaesthetic or spinal block.
Quick recovery time
Due to the fact that this surgery is less invasive, and theatre time is shorter, recovery is generally much quicker. There is usually less pain following surgery, and healing is usually faster. Many patients can also go home the same day. Most patients return to normal activities fairly quickly if they follow the surgeon’s advice.
Diagnostic tool
Knee arthroscopy surgery can be used for exploring and diagnosing persistent joint and cartilage pain. It can also be used as a tool to diagnose the severity of any damage to the knee joint, which may be due to a sporting injury or from other conditions like osteoarthritis. The surgeon is able to gain a good internal image and can carry out any surgery that is required.
Less risk of infection
One reason why many surgeons choose to conduct knee arthroscopy surgery on suitable patients is because there is less risk of infection occurring post surgery. The fine incisions keep the wound small, with only a few sutures required. This type of wound tends to heal very quickly, resulting in less risk of developing an infection.
Knee arthroscopy treats multiple issues
This surgery may help to treat and repair any damaged cartilage, as well as remove bone fragments within the joint. It can also help to drain any build up of fluid on the knee.