Arthroscopy of the Knee Joint
An arthroscope is a fibre-optic telescope that can be inserted into the knee joint to evaluate and treat a number of conditions. A camera is attached to the arthroscope and the picture is visualized on a high definition monitor. Most arthroscopic surgery of the knee is performed as ‘day case’ surgery and is usually done under general anaesthesia. Knee arthroscopy is common, and millions of procedures are performed each year around the world.
Arthroscopy is useful in evaluating and treating the following conditions
• Torn cartilage (meniscus): The cartilage is trimmed to a stable rim or repaired
• Torn surface (articular) cartilage
• Loose bodies within the joint (cartilage or bone that has broken off) and cysts
• Reconstruction of the Anterior Cruciate ligament/Posterior Cruciate Ligament
• Patellofemoral (kneecap) disorders
• Washout of infected knees
• General diagnostic and planning purposes
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Basic Knee Anatomy
The knee is one of the largest joints in the body. The knee joint is made up of the femur, tibia and patella (kneecap). All these bones are lined with articular (surface) cartilage. This articular cartilage acts like a shock absorber and provides a smooth, low friction surface for the knee to move on. Between the tibia and femur lie two cartilages called menisci. The medial (inner) meniscus and the lateral (outer) meniscus rest on the tibial surface cartilage and are mobile. The menisci also act as shock absorbers and stabilisers. The knee is stabilised by ligaments that are both in and outside the joint. The medial and lateral collateral ligaments support the knee from excessive side-to-side movement. The (internal) anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments stabilise the knee, preventing instability / giving way. The knee joint is surrounded by a capsule (envelope) that produces a small amount of synovial (lubrication) fluid to help with smooth motion. Thigh muscles are important secondary knee stabilisers.
Investigations
A routine X-Ray of the knee, which includes a standing weight-bearing view is usually required. An MRI scan which looks at the cartilages and soft tissues may be needed if the diagnosis is unclear. Occasionally the use of CT scan to investigate knee problems can be helpful.
Meniscal Cartilage Tears
Following a twisting type of injury, the medial and lateral menisci can tear. These results either from a sporting injury or from a simple twisting injury such as getting out of a chair or standing from a squatting position. Our cartilages become a little brittle as we get older and therefore can tear a little more easily. The symptoms of a torn cartilage include
• Pain over the torn area i.e. inner or outer side of the knee
• Knee swelling
• Reduced motion
• Clicking, clunking or locking if the cartilage gets caught between the femur and tibia
Cartilage Tears
Once a meniscal cartilage has torn, it will not heal unless it is of a favourable pattern in an area with good blood supply (usually near the capsule of the joint). Once the cartilage has torn it no longer functions as a shock absorber, predisposing the knee to the risks of osteoarthritis (wear and tear) in later years. It is better to remove torn pieces from the knee if the knee is symptomatic.
Torn cartilages may continue to cause symptoms of mechanical discomfort, pain and swelling until the loose, ragged pieces are removed. Only the torn section is removed, and the knee should recover and become symptom free. If the entire meniscus is removed, the knee may develop osteoarthritis in later years. It is standard to remove only the torn section of cartilage, preserving as much tissue as possible in an attempt to delay the onset of long-term ‘wear and tear’.
Provided the tear is of a favourable pattern (peripheral tear), in a young patient, the meniscus may be suitable for repair. If repaired, the patient must avoid twisting sports for a minimum of three months. A knee brace may also be required.
Articular Cartilage (Surface) Injury
If the surface cartilage is torn, this is significant, as a major shock-absorbing function is compromised. Large pieces of articular cartilage can ‘float’ in the knee (sometimes with bone attached) and this causes locking of the joint and can cause further deterioration due to the loose bodies unattached within the knee causing further damage. Most surface cartilage wear will ultimately lead to further osteoarthritis. Mechanical symptoms of pain and swelling due to cartilage peeling off can be helped with arthroscopic surgery. The surgery smooths the edges of the surface cartilage and removes loose bodies.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries
Rupture of the Anterior (rarely the posterior) Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is a common sporting injury. Once ruptured the ACL does not heal and usually causes knee instability and the inability to return to normal sporting activities. An ACL reconstruction may be required, and a new ligament is created to replace the ruptured ligament. This procedure is performed using the arthroscope.
Patella (kneecap) Disorders
The arthroscope can be used to treat problems relating to kneecap disorders, particularly mal-tracking and significant surface cartilage tears. Patients may occasionally need to stay overnight if a lateral release has been performed as knee swelling is quite common. The majority of common kneecap problems can be treated with physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Post Operative Instructions
After a major cartilage or ligament injury has been treated the knee can return to normal function. There is however a small increase in the risk of developing long-term wear and tear (Osteoarthritis) and depending on the degree of injury activity modification may be required. Activities that help prevent knees deteriorating quickly include:
• Low impact sports like swimming, cycling and walking
• Reducing weight and maintaining a healthy diet
Arthroscopy of the Knee: Patient Consent Information
Please stop taking Aspirin and Anti-inflammatory medications 5 days prior to your surgery. You can continue taking all your other routine medication. If you smoke, you are advised to stop prior to your surgery.
You will be admitted on the day of surgery and need to remain fasted for 6 hours prior to the procedure.
The limb undergoing the procedure will be marked and identified prior to the anaesthetic being administered.
Once you are under an anaesthetic, the knee is prepared in a sterile fashion. A tourniquet is placed around the thigh to allow a ‘blood – free' procedure.
The arthroscope is introduced through a small (size of a pen) incision on the outer side of the knee. A second incision on the inner side of the knee is made to introduce the instruments that allow examination of the joint and treatment of the problem.
Post-operative Recovery
You will wake up in the recovery area and then be transferred back to the ward
A bandage will be around the operated knee.
Once you are recovered your intravenous drip will be removed and you will be shown a number of exercises to do.
Mr Frame will see you prior to discharge and explain the findings of the operation and what was done during surgery.
Pain medication will be provided and should be taken as directed
You can remove the bandage in 24-48 hours and retain the waterproof dressings over the wounds.
It is NORMAL for the knee to swell after the surgery. Elevating the leg when you are seated and placing ice packs on the knee will help to reduce swelling. (Ice packs on for 20 min 3-5 times a day until swelling has reduced)
You are able to return to work when comfortable unless otherwise instructed.
We will make an appointment 10-14 days after surgery to monitor your progress and remove any stitches in your knee. Mr Frame will see you at 6 weeks in the outpatient clinic or via a Zoom consultation if more convenient for you.
Click below to take a look at the helpful reusable AIRCAST CryoCuff and Ice Packs in 'The Kit Room'
Risks of Arthroscopy
General Anaesthetic risks are extremely rare. Occasionally patients have some discomfort in the throat as a result of the tube that supplies oxygen and other gasses. Please discuss with Dr Sparkes if you have any specific concerns
Risks related to Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Include
• Postoperative bleeding
• Deep Vein Thrombosis
• Infection
• Stiffness
• Numbness to part of the skin near the incisions
• Injury to vessels, nerves and chronic pain syndrome
• Progression of the disease process
The risks and complications of arthroscopic knee surgery are extremely small. One must however bear in mind that occasionally there is more damage in the knee than was initially thought and that this may affect the recovery time. In addition, if the cartilage in the knee is partly worn out then arthroscopic surgery has about a 65% chance of improving symptoms in the short to medium term, but more definitive surgery may be required in the future. In general, arthroscopic surgery does not improve knees that have well established osteoarthritis.
Post-Operative Exercises and Physiotherapy
Following your surgery, you will be given an instruction sheet showing exercises that are helpful in speeding up your recovery. Strengthening your thigh muscles (Quadriceps and Hamstrings) is most important. Swimming and cycling (stationary or road) are excellent ways to build these muscles up and improve movement.
FAQs
How long am I in the Hospital?
A: Between 4-6 hours
Do I need crutches?
A: Usually not required (Unless you are having Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction)
When can I get the knee wet?
A: After 24 hrs remove the bandage and retain waterproof dressings.
When can I drive?
A: After 48 hrs if the knee is comfortable. You need to assess if you are able to do an emergency stop without pain
When can I return to work?
A: When the knee feels reasonably comfortable.
When can I shower?
A: After 24 hrs provided the dressings/wounds can be kept completely dry
When can I swim or bathe?
A: After removal of the stitches.
How long will my knee take to recover?
A: Depending on the findings and surgery, usually 4 to 6 weeks following the surgery.
When Can I return to Sports?
A: Depending on the findings, 4-6 weeks after surgery.
