The evaluation and examination of the patient prior to arthroscopic meniscus surgery is an important step before entering into the actual details of the procedure, as it determines the size and location of the meniscus to be treated.
What is the meniscus and why is meniscus arthroscopy necessary?
The meniscus is a soft layer of cartilage in the knee joint that acts as one of the knee’s shock absorbers. A meniscus tear occurs when this layer is torn, commonly due to sports injuries or aging. Arthroscopic meniscus surgery is a surgical procedure that aims to repair or trim the damaged meniscus in the knee. This is done by inserting small surgical instruments through a small incision in the skin, which helps reduce pain and shorten the recovery period.
Preparing for surgery
To prepare for arthroscopic meniscus surgery, you must follow certain necessary procedures. Undergo the required medical tests before surgery and follow your best knee doctor in egypt instructions regarding food and fluids before surgery. It is also recommended to clean the knee thoroughly before surgery. You should not take medications such as aspirin or blood thinners before surgery, and you should refrain from eating and drinking for a specified period of time before the operation, eight hours prior to the operation, based on the instructions of your orthopedic surgeon.
Necessary tests before arthroscopic meniscus surgery
The patient must undergo certain tests before undergoing meniscus surgery. These tests include a blood count and liver and kidney function tests to ensure that there are no health problems before the operation. X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are also performed to assess the size and shape of the cartilage tear and to accurately determine its location.
What are arthroscopic meniscus surgeries?
Arthroscopic meniscus surgeries are surgical procedures used to treat knee cartilage tears. These surgeries are performed using small instruments that allow the orthopedic surgoen to repair the tear accurately and with as little surgical intervention as possible. The procedure involves repairing the torn meniscus or removing a small portion of it using an arthroscope. Arthroscopic meniscus surgeries are a common option for treating meniscus tears and are used to maintain knee health and reduce potential complications.
Steps of the meniscus arthroscopy procedure
After the patient is anesthetized, a few small incisions are made in the knee, usually two, and the knee is filled with fluid to help the orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee joint injuries see clearly. Then, the arthroscope is inserted through one of the incisions. The tear is repaired by stitching the torn parts together or removing part of the torn cartilage. When finished, the incisions are closed and sutured, usually with only one stitch per incision.
What is the price of arthroscopic meniscus surgery?
The cost of the surgery depends on several factors, including whether it is a repair or trim, and generally ranges between 30,000 and 50,000 pounds. You should consult a specialist orthopedic surgeon for more details.
After the procedure
After undergoing arthroscopic meniscus surgery, you will need to rest for a while. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding home care and rehabilitation. You may be asked to use crutches or a walker for a short period to relieve the load on your knee. You should also take your prescribed medications and follow up with your orthopedic surgeon.
Is meniscus surgery a permanent solution for a torn meniscus?
Patients who are about to undergo surgery often wonder if the procedure is a permanent solution. In most cases, the answer is yes, but of course, the details should be discussed with the treating doctor.
Necessary care after arthroscopic meniscus surgery
After arthroscopic meniscus surgery, proper care is required for a quick and healthy recovery. You should rest and avoid strenuous activities and heavy loads on the affected knee. It is also recommended to apply ice to the knee to reduce inflammation and pain. Care also includes performing prescribed rehabilitation exercises regularly to restore knee movement and strength. It is also recommended to visit a sports injury doctor for assessment of improvement, necessary follow-up, and wound care. Recovery after arthroscopic meniscus surgery may take approximately 4 to 6 weeks.
Physical therapy after meniscus surgery
Patients usually need physical therapy to get back to normal after meniscus surgery. Some of these exercises are explained in this video
Side effects of arthroscopic meniscus surgery
Some side effects and potential complications may occur after arthroscopic meniscus surgery. The patient may experience some swelling and inflammation due to post-operative inflammation or infection. They may also feel a slight decrease in range of motion. However, these side effects are often temporary and disappear with time and proper treatment. The patient must follow the doctor’s instructions and perform certain therapeutic exercises to ensure a quick and proper recovery.
