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Knee arthroscopy Description:
Arthroscopic knee surgery (scope in the knee joint) is one of the most common orthopedic procedures performed today. While the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia) or sleepy (sedated) and pain-free (regional anesthesia or spinal anesthesia), several small punctures are made into the knee joint. The viewing scope (arthroscope) and other instruments are inserted into the knee joint. The surgeon can see the ligaments, the knee disc (meniscus), the knee bone (patella), the lining of the joint (synovium), and the rest of the joint. Damaged tissues can be removed. Arthroscopy can also be used to help view the inside of the knee while ligaments or tendons are repaired from the outside.
Most arthroscopic surgery is done on an outpatient basis, not requiring overnight hospitalization.
Indications:
Arthroscopy may be recommended for knee problems such as: - a torn knee disc (meniscus)
- a damaged knee bone (patella)
- a damaged ligament
- inflamed or damaged lining of the joint (synovium)
What to Expect After:
Use of the arthroscopy has reduced the need to surgically open the knee joint which has resulted in less pain, swelling , stiffness, complications, and the length of hospitalization.
Convalescence:
Recovery is usually quite rapid. The patient may need to use crutches for a while to avoid weight and pressure on the knee joint. Normal activities should be reduced for several weeks. Pain can be managed with medications.
Risks:
Risks for any anesthesia are: Risks for any surgery are: Additional risks include:
Cost:
The costs of any surgery varies significantly between surgeons, medical facilities, and regions of the country. Patients who are younger, sicker, or need more extensive surgery will require more intensive and expensive treatment.
Surgery charges can be separated into five parts:
1. Surgeon's fee: approximately $3,000
2. Anesthesiologist's fee: averages $350 to $400 per hour
3. Hospital charges: basic rate averages $1,500 to $1,800 per day (more for the intensive care unit (ICU) or private rooms)
4. Medication charges: $200 to $400
5. Additional charges: assisting surgeon, treatment of complications, diagnostic procedures (such as blood or X-ray exams), medical supplies, or equipment use.
Insurance coverage for surgery expenses depends on many factors and should be explored for each individual instance.
Arthroscopy allows for the visualization of the interior of a joint through the use of optic instruments. Surgery can now be performed on larger joints using direct visualization and miniaturized techniques. After this procedure, the person can often go home the same day.
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