Name of the Procedure:

Arthroscopy, Knee, Surgical; with Meniscus Repair (Medial or Lateral)

Summary

Arthroscopic knee surgery with meniscus repair involves using a tiny camera to look inside the knee joint and repair a torn meniscus. The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between your thigh bone and shin bone.

Purpose

This surgery addresses meniscus tears which can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement in the knee. The goal is to repair the tear, alleviate symptoms, and restore normal knee function.

Indications

• Knee pain and swelling
• Torn meniscus diagnosed via MRI or physical examination
• Instability or locking of the knee
• Failure of non-surgical treatments (e.g., physical therapy, medications)

Preparation

• Fasting for 6-12 hours before surgery
• Stopping certain medications as advised by your doctor
• Pre-surgical assessments like MRI or X-rays

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia is administered (usually general or regional).
2. Small incisions are made around the knee.
3. An arthroscope (a small camera) is inserted to provide a clear view of the inside of the joint.
4. Surgical tools are inserted through other small incisions to repair the torn meniscus.
5. The meniscus is sewn back together or trimmed for proper healing.
6. Incisions are closed with stitches or adhesive strips.

Duration

Typically, the procedure lasts about 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital or surgical center on an outpatient basis.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Operating room technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Damage to surrounding nerves or blood vessels
• Stiffness or loss of motion
• Meniscus re-tear

Benefits

• Relief from pain and swelling
• Improved knee function and mobility
• Quicker recovery compared to open surgery

Recovery

• Use of crutches for a few weeks
• Physical therapy to restore strength and motion
• Pain management with medications
• Full recovery typically within 3 to 6 months
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing

Alternatives

• Conservative treatments (e.g., physical therapy, medications)
• Meniscectomy (partial or total removal of the meniscus)
• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections
• Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, which should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

Patients may feel some discomfort during the immediate post-operative period, managed with pain medications. Swelling and stiffness are common initially but improve with physical therapy. A feeling of improved knee stability and reduced pain is typically noticed within a few weeks.