| |
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a physician uses an arthroscope to evaluate or to treat meniscus injuries, for the reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and to treat cartilage microfracturing.
The arthroscope (one of the the surgical tools used in the surgery) is inserted into the knee joint through a small incision that your physician will make. An arthroscope a tool that helps to provide an image for visual inspection and photography of the surgery. This incision is approximately 4 mm (1/8 inch) in length. A second small incision, is then made so that the surgical instrument being used can work upon the affected area. As a result of using surgical instruments that are smaller than traditional instruments, the procedure can be monitored.
As a result of being less invasive, this procedure can reduce recovery time and can increase the success rate of the procedure. The success rate can rise because there is less trauma done to the joint and its connective tissues. Since it is a less invasive procedure there is also less scarring. In order to make "surgical space" the knee joint will be distended by the use of irrigation fluid. This fluid can sometimes leak into the surrounding soft tissue and cause edema (swelling).
One of the benefits of arthroscopy is that most patients can return home, walking with a pair of crutches the same day, or within 24 hours. Many times people will ask how long it will take to heal, and this depends on the the reasons why surgery was needed in the first place. Was it an ACL reconstruction, or a meniscus tear? These two different procedures will vary in recovery time. - A person's physical condition will also be a factor to consider in regards to recovery time. It is important to listen to your physician, but is not uncommon for athletes in good physical condition to return to normal athletic activities within a few weeks of the procedure. (See your physician for details).
The use of a knee brace after this kind of procedure is a good idea. Although thee procedures are minimally invasive, the reconstructed ACL, for example can benefit from a knee support. These knee braces are important because they may be the adjunct to your post surgical recovery that prevents a future surgical procedure. Why take chances after your surgery?
References :
1.) NEJM -- A Controlled Trial of Arthroscopic Surgery for Osteoarthritis of the Knee". Retrieved on 2008-01-14.
If you would like more free information just like this you can visit us online at http://www.drbraceco.com . Dr. Brace Co. is an education based site that also provides affordable supports for your knee to help improve stability and reduce pain.
 EasyPublish™ this article - publishers click here
More articles by Daniel Sims
- Lower Back Exercises Eliminate Pain (Nancy Rishworth)
Lower back exercises improve strength of the core muscles, those muscles that support your back, your abdominal muscles, and your legs. This group of muscles is also responsible for your posture. - Hypoglycemia - Do You Have These Symptoms? Act Now (Noel Glass)
Although Doctors and people in general do not always take hypoglycemia seriously, you should because of where it could lead to. Over time your extreme blood sugar levels can develop into serious problems like diabetes and contribute to heart disease and kidney, eye and nerve damage. Happily, with a diet plan, this can be overcome.
|
