General Information

DEFINITION--Visual examination of a joint with an arthroscope, a fiber-optic instrument with a lighted tip.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Joint, usually in the knee, but often performed in the shoulder.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• Diagnosis of disease or injury inside a joint.
• Removal of bone or cartilage or repair of tendons or ligaments.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Adults over 60.
• Obesity; smoking.
• Poor nutrition.
• Recent illness.
• Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--Orthopedist.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital or outpatient surgical facility.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; x-rays of joint.
• After surgery: Blood studies; laboratory examination of removed fluid or tissue.

ANESTHESIA

• Local anesthesia by injection.
• Spinal anesthesia by injection.
• General anesthesia by injection and inhalation with an airway tube placed in the windpipe.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• A small incision is made at the side of the joint to be examined (several openings may be made for a complete examination). The arthroscope is inserted into the joint. Diagnostic and/or surgical procedures are then performed, depending on the problem.
• The arthroscope is removed. The skin is closed with sutures or clips, which usually can be removed about 7 to 10 days after surgery.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Bleeding into joint.
• Surgical-wound infection.
• Slow healing.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--0 to 1 day.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 6 weeks for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

> Move and elevate legs often while resting in bed to decrease the likelihood of deep--

vein blood clots.

• Following a knee arthroscopy, use crutches or a cane to walk until your doctor determines that healing is complete. > Physical therapy may hasten healing and restore strength. Ask your doctor.

> You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

> To help recovery and aid your well--

being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

• Avoid vigorous exercise for 6 weeks after surgery. > Resume driving when your doctor determines that healing is complete.

DIET---No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

> Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.