Capital City Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine

Knee Arthroscopy in Atlanta, GA

What is Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is a common diagnostic procedure, performed for the knee, hip, and shoulder, in which the inside of a joint is viewed by way of a camera, or scope, that has been inserted through a small incision. If applicable, treatment can often be administered via the same method, allowing for a minimally invasive surgical solution. Due to its size and accessibility, the knee is one of the best-suited joints for arthroscopic approach.

Learn more about arthroscopy in Atlanta, GA »

From the recently injured to those suffering gradual wear-and-tear, a wide range of patients may find themselves candidates for arthroscopic treatment. Based on your type of knee ailment and its subsequent severity, an orthopaedic surgeon will be able to assess whether this diagnostic and treatment option is right for you. Knee arthroscopy is most often recommended for the following:

• Torn meniscal cartilage (removal and/or repair)
• Torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) reconstruction
• Articular cartilage trimming
• Bone and/or cartilage fragment (removal)
• Inflamed synovial tissue (removal)

If you are recommended for knee arthroscopy, you will need to complete a full physical examination prior to surgery, which will allow your physician to identify any problems that could prevent treatment success. Other pre-op tests may include a blood count, electrocardiogram, or family history review.

Knee Arthroscopy Surgical Procedure

On the day of your knee arthroscopy procedure, you will be asked to follow standard hospital admission procedure, often arriving one to two hours before surgery. A member of the anesthesia team will assess your unique case, advising whether local (knee only), regional (waist down), or general (fully asleep) is recommended. The actual operation will often last from thirty minutes to one hour in length, depending upon diagnostic findings and the level of treatment necessary.

Benefits of Knee Arthroscopy Over Open Surgery

Compared to traditional open knee surgery, the arthroscopic approach allows for a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery. You should be able to return to the majority of your usual physical activities within six to eight weeks, if not less. Higher impact behaviors may need to be avoided for a more extended period of time.

Knee Arthroscopy Surgery Recovery

For a few days following the surgery, you will want to take special precautions to avoid swelling (by elevating the joint and applying ice) or infection (by keeping the incisions dry and covered by a sanitary dressing). Crutches or other assistance may be temporarily necessary, and your surgeon will advise when it is safe to begin placing weight on your knee and leg.

Following your knee arthroscopy, additional medicinal or exercise therapies, such as physical therapy, tai chi or Pilates, may be prescribed for improved recovery and care. While complications are infrequent, be aware that knee arthroscopy carries similar risks to any other operative procedure. Potential issues include: infection, blood clotting, or unusual blood accumulation in the knee. Signs and symptoms of these problems include, but are not limited to:

• Fever
• Chills
• Atypical redness or warmth in the knee area
• Increased pain in the knee or calf muscle
• Significant swelling

If you have any questions regarding treatment approach, or other post-op concerns, you should consult your orthopaedic surgeon immediately.

Arthroscopic Surgery Treatment in Atlanta, GA

Dr. David Fowler and the team at Capital City Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine provide top quality orthopaedic care, including expertise in knee arthroscopy and other minimally invasive treatment options. To schedule an appointment, call our Peachtree Dunwood Road location at 404-303-8482.