Knee arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is the introduction of a sterile optics within the joint.

The optic is connected to a camera and a monitor or computer screen.

The surgeon at all times can see the areas where you are working.

Arthroscopy is a surgical technique that requires a learning period prior, more important the more we increase the complexity of what we are doing.

Indications

• Meniscal pathology: partial meniscectomy, you must respect the maximum possible meniscus, or better if possible, meniscal sutures (meniscus repair).
• Section of synovial plicae: membranes are formed between the patella and femur, poor conditioning patello-femoral route.
• Problems of articular cartilage: mosaicoplastias osteochondral grafts with lesions less than 2 cm, debridement in osteoarthritis.
• Reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament or posterior cruciate ligament.
• Meniscus transplants in people under fifty or fifty-five who lack it because they have completely removed.
• Synovectomies in case of presence of reactive synovitis.
• Cleaning some infections.

Arthrolysis or release of adhesions in knees with decreased mobility stiffness, Muchas times secondary to fractures of the femur tibia, interventions or traumas.

Clinical process

Once diagnosed the problem, and after trying all non-surgical options (I rest, NSAIDs at anti-inflammatory steroids, rehabilitation and other) after understanding the injury and treatment, and possible complications of the procedure, if the patient consents to the arthroscopy, must sign the informed consent document.

• The doctor will ask for a to be reviewed by the anesthetist basic preoperative study.
• The day before surgery should shave the area to intervene and wash with mild soap.
• The patient should be fasting at least 8 hours before the time appointed for the intervention.
• Usually you will go home the next day with a bandage. In more complex processes, the doctor will take other measures.
• The doctor will detail the necessary cures depending on your case and materialize next visit, and medication to follow.

Complications

Despite being a minimally invasive procedure, arthroscopy is not without complications. They are rare. These may be:

• Hemartrosis: bloodshed in the joint, appears as a puncture pain and swelling, usually no fever, sometimes must be evacuated.
• Infection: Pain in the surgical wound, redness, fiebre alta, drainage, should consult a specialist as soon as possible.
• Breakage of the joint material: mediated necessary will be taken to remove the less traumatic.
• Trombosis deep venous.
• Tromboembolismo pulmonary.
• Compartmental syndrome.

These last three complications are extremely rare, appearance and if he should take urgent action to address them.

Your surgeon or someone from the team will perform the necessary checks and take measures to prevent any of these complications occur and intervention is u