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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