Bad Knee..

I have a bad right knee. My regular Dr. thought it was a medial meniscus tear. So I went to an orthopedic Dr. today to have him take a look at it and sure enough he thinks the same thing. I have to get a scheduled MRI..which hopefully will be within the next two weeks. And then from there he thinks I will need arthroscopic surgery. Below is information on that type of surgery from the website listed above about the medial meniscus tear. I will be on crutches for at least a few days but he said it shouldn't take too long to recover because I am so young. I guess he doesn't know me that well. Being a diabetic everything takes longer to get better for me. So hopefully the kids will behave long enough for me to recover quickly! Once I know more I will let you all know. Please pray!

How is arthroscopic surgery performed?

Arthroscopic surgery is a procedure that is used to look inside a joint. Through one small incision (about 1 centimeter) a small camera, about the size of a pencil, is inserted into the joint. Then using one or more other small incisions, your surgeon places other instruments inside the knee to remove the torn cartilage.

How big are arthroscopic incisions?

Incisions for arthroscopy are quite small, usually about 1 centimeter each. The incisions are closed with one suture that is either outside or underneath the skin. A bandage is placed over the arthroscopic incisions for at least a day or two to keep the incisions sterile.

How is the damaged cartilage removed?

The torn meniscus can be removed using a number of different instruments, including small shavers and scissors. The arthroscope will also allow your surgeon to inspect the rest of the knee joint looking for signs of arthritis, loose pieces of cartilage in the knee, the ligaments of the knee, and other problems inside the joint.

Is arthroscopic knee surgery painful?

There is usually minimal pain associated with arthroscopic knee surgery. An anesthesiologist will be with you for the entire procedure to ensure you are comfortable. Following the procedure you will be given instructions on what type of pain medicine to take in you do experience discomfort. Icing the area is helpful for the first few days after surgery, as is keeping the knee elevated.