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ARTHROSCOPY

General Information

DEFINITION--Visual examination of a joint with an arthroscope, a fiber-optic instrument with a lighted tip.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Joint, usually in the knee, but often performed in the shoulder.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

  • Diagnosis of disease or injury inside a joint.
  • Removal of bone or cartilage or repair of tendons or ligaments.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

  • Adults over 60.
  • Obesity; smoking.
  • Poor nutrition.
  • Recent illness.
  • Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
  • Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--Orthopedist.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

  • Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; x-rays of joint.
  • After surgery: Blood studies; laboratory examination of removed fluid or tissue.

ANESTHESIA

  • Local anesthesia by injection.
  • Spinal anesthesia by injection.
  • General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the windpipe.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

  • A small incision is made at the side of the joint to be examined (several openings may be made for a complete examination). The arthroscope is inserted into the joint. Diagnostic and/or surgical procedures are then performed, depending on the problem.
  • The arthroscope is removed. The skin is closed with sutures or clips, which usually can be removed about 7 to 10 days after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

  • Bleeding into joint.
  • Surgical-wound infection.
  • Slow healing.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--0 to 1 day.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 6 weeks for recovery from surgery.


Postoperative Care

† Move and elevate legs often while resting in bed to decrease the likelihood of deep--

    vein blood clots.

  • Following a knee arthroscopy, use crutches or a cane to walk until your doctor determines that healing is complete. > Physical therapy may hasten healing and restore strength. Ask your doctor.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

† To help recovery and aid your well--

    being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

  • Avoid vigorous exercise for 6 weeks after surgery. > Resume driving when your doctor determines that healing is complete.

DIET---No special diet.


Call Your Doctor If

† Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.

  • You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
  • You experience nausea or vomiting.
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