Arthroscopy of the knee joint is a minimally invasive operation to diagnose and treat intra-articular injuries. The camera and instruments are introduced into the joint cavity through several punctures, without open access.
The method allows you to accurately work with the meniscus, ligaments, cartilage tissue, synovial membrane. Its use during surgery reduces tissue trauma.
Cases when arthroscopy of the knee joint is indicated
Indications always relate to intra-articular damage. If conservative treatment is ineffective or an accurate diagnosis cannot be established without imaging, arthroscopy is prescribed.
The method is used in the following cases:
- traumatic ruptures of the meniscus;
- cruciate ligament damage;
- cartilage defects on the articular surface;
- the presence of free bodies in the joint cavity;
- chronic inflammation of the synovial membrane;
- blocking movements in the knee.
The procedure is indicated for both diagnosis and treatment. With the help of an arthroscope, the orthopedic doctor receives a complete image of the condition of the articular structures. If the problem is confirmed, it is eliminated immediately, without the need for a repeat operation.
Contraindications to knee arthroscopy
There are situations when surgery is postponed or an alternative is sought. These can be partial or absolute contraindications. It all depends on the clinical picture and concomitant conditions.
The main limitations:
- active infection;
- severe blood clotting disorders;
- unstable cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases;
- terminal arthrosis with loss of the joint gap;
- open wound or skin lesion on the knee joint.
Before the operation, the patient undergoes laboratory examinations. Hemoglobin levels, blood clotting and general health are assessed. Consultation of a therapist and an ECG is also necessary.
When is it better not to delay so that there are no complications
Some conditions require prompt intervention. Postponing arthroscopy in such cases, you can face serious problems — complications or even loss of joint function.
Do not wait for:
- blocking the joint with a fragment of the meniscus;
- instability after injury;
- severe swelling and pain that does not go away;
- suspected significant damage to the articular cartilage or ligaments.
In acute cases, arthroscopy during the first 2 weeks gives better results. Early intervention helps preserve cartilage tissue, avoid arthrosis, and reduce overall recovery time.
Advantages of the method of arthroscopy in the treatment of the knee
The use of knee arthroscopy minimizes soft tissue damage compared to open surgeries and ensures faster recovery. This operation is a technologically accurate procedure with a high level of security.
It has the following advantages:
- accurate visualization of damage on the monitor;
- reduced risk of complications;
- short stay in the hospital;
- faster return to activity;
- less likely to form scars.
The use of endoscopic instruments reduces injury. The result is better knee function after arthroscopy, without loss of stability or mobility. Point treatment — the doctor acts only in the area of damage.
Anterior cruciate ligament rupture is a common cause of surgery. In such cases, arthroscopic reconstruction is performed — PVC plastic. Use the patient's own graft. The articular structures around remain intact. The operation lasts 60-90 minutes under spinal or general anesthesia. Hospitalization is minimal or not required at all. Rehabilitation — 6—9 months.
The load after the operation is partially limited, rehabilitation begins almost immediately. This significantly reduces the risk of loss of muscle tone and the development of contractures.
How do our doctors perform arthroscopy of the knee joint
The standard protocol is the introduction of instruments through two or three punctures. One for an arthroscope with a camera. Others are for surgical instruments. A clear image is displayed on the monitor in real time.
The algorithm is as follows:
- anesthesia (general or spinal);
- access to the knee cavity;
- diagnosis and assessment of the condition;
- therapeutic actions — resection, suturing, removal of foreign bodies, etc.;
- washing the joint, applying a bandage.
Arthroscopy of the knee joint in Lviv in Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma Clinic is performed using modern optical systems. This ensures accurate navigation in the damage zone. After the operation, an elastic bandage and, in part of the operations, a tourniquet is applied to the knee. Gypsum or rigid fixation is usually not required.
Rules for preparing for this operation
Before the operation, you need to pass laboratory tests. 8 hours before the intervention, you can not eat and drink. Medicines that affect blood clotting are stopped taking in advance, in agreement with the doctor.
Recommendations:
- discuss with the orthopedist all existing diseases;
- report an allergy;
- clarify the list of permanent drugs;
- do not change the medication yourself, coordinate all the details with a specialist.
Preparation is standard for a minimally invasive procedure. It is aimed at reducing risks and a stable result.
Recovery process after knee arthroscopy
Rehabilitation depends on the complexity of the surgical intervention, the general condition of the patient and compliance with the regimen. In the first day after surgery, compression, cold and elevated leg position are necessary. Resistance is limited in part — depending on the scope of the procedure.
After arthroscopy, recovery depends on the type of intervention performed (PCH plastic, meniscus suturing, etc.).
The load after surgery is increased gradually. Rotational movements, running, jumping should be avoided. When stability is restored after cruciate ligament plasty, the process lasts 6—9 months. Rehabilitation is accompanied by an orthopedist-traumatologist and a physiotherapist.
What effect does arthroscopy of the knee joint give?
In most cases, patients get rid of pain, swelling, a feeling of joint blockage. Full or almost full range of motion is returned.
Unlike open methods, arthroscopy does not damage the surrounding tissues. This reduces the risk of complications, shortens the rehabilitation period, allows you to resume activity faster. Even with complex damage to cartilage tissue, the method makes it possible to intervene locally in the problem area without affecting healthy structures.
Why choose Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma
- Narrow specialization in arthroscopy.The clinic regularly performs arthroscopic interventions on the knee joint. We work with meniscus, cartilage, ligaments, including the anterior cruciate.
- Modern equipment. Operations are performed using an arthroscope with high-resolution optics. Everything happens under visual control on the monitor.
- Comprehensive treatment in one place. Consultation, examination, arthroscopy, rehabilitation — without referrals and transfers.
- Comfort and result. Patients are treated according to an individual scheme. The extent of the intervention is determined depending on the complexity of the case.
Price for knee arthroscopy in Lviv
The price of knee arthroscopy depends on the type of pathology, the extent of the lesion and the complexity of the planned operation. Our specialists will tell you in detail about all the details after the initial inspection. If you are interested in the price of arthroscopy of the meniscus and other joint structures, call us or make an appointment online using the form on the website.
