An arthroscopy is a surgical procedure in which your surgeon is able to look at and examine the inside of a joint using a camera or ‘scope’. Multiple small incisions in different areas of your joint are made and a small camera and tools access the joint or joints.
There are various reasons why an arthroscopy is required to examine a joint, but often it is either to confirm the diagnosis shown from a previous MRI scan or X-ray, or to perform repairs to the joint.
The knee is one of the most commonly examined joints by arthroscopic examination. Using video equipment, the surgeons are able to examine the knee, enabling them to grade the severity of the damage, and then proceed with the most appropriate treatment option.
Under some circumstances, an arthroscopy is used when a patient’s symptoms indicate ‘loose bodies’ or ‘wear and tear’ in the knee. These include certain areas of knee pain, painful clicking in the joint and ‘locking’ or giving way of the joint. In some operations, arthroscopic tools are able to shave and remove loose or damaged tissues within the joint (i.e. cartilage) in order to “tidy” the areas and reduce the patient’s symptoms. However, arthroscopic procedures have now developed to allow more advanced and technical procedures including ligament reconstruction.
Following your operation, your surgeon will strongly advise physiotherapy input to assist with swelling management, retaining strength around the knee and to provide stretching programmes to ensure the best recovery. Your Physiotherapist will be able to assess the movement in your joints and provide advice and treatments to re-educate movement so that you can soon return to your favourite activities and sports.
PhysioComesToYou can provide a quality physiotherapy service at your home or work without the inconvenience of travelling in a state of reduced mobility. Contact us today on 0207 884 0374 or email info@physiocomestoyou.com.