Knee Surgeon Perth for knee arthroscopy
Knee Arthroscopy
Knee arthroscopy | knee surgeon Perth
What is knee arthroscopy?
Knee Arthroscopy is a keyhole operation that orthopaedic surgeons use to treat structural problems inside the knee joint. A fibre optic telescope known as an arthroscope is inserted into the knee joint through very small cuts at the front of the knee.
A camera is attached to the arthroscope, and a clear view of the inside of the knee joint can be seen on a video monitor. This allows your orthopaedic surgeon to examine all areas inside the knee joint.
Knee arthroscopy | knee surgeon Perth
What can be done with knee arthroscopy surgery?
During the procedure, Dr Colvin will be able to treat a number of problems including:
- A torn meniscus (cartilage), which can be treated with meniscectomy or meniscal repair.
- Damage to the articular cartilage which forms the joint surface (a Teflon like coating). It can be smoothed and flaps removed.
- A loose body formed by cartilage or bone floating in the knee can be removed.
- Lateral release cuts tissues which are too tight on the outer side of the knee cap to free it up and relieve the pain from a sore knee cap.
Arthroscopic Surgery has become a routine procedure. The incisions are small, which assists with faster healing and lowers the risks of complications. Most arthroscopies can be done as a day procedure.
Knee arthroscopy | knee surgeon Perth
What happens during a knee arthroscopy?
At the start of the procedure, a tourniquet is applied to the leg to prevent blood obscuring the view during surgery.
Two cuts are made at the front of the knee, one for the arthroscope and the other for small operating tools and shavers to be inserted into the joint.
Dr Colvin will undertake the surgery while looking at a video monitor.
Knee Arthroscopy surgery can be as simple as removing a torn cartilage or as complex as ACL injury reconstruction.
Knee arthroscopy | knee surgeon Perth
CO.RE Exercises
In the field of shoulder and knee reconstruction, successful outcomes from an operation are 50% surgery and 50% rehabilitation. You could say the surgery is the easy bit, the rehabilitation is all hard slog.
Dr Colvin’s CO.RE exercise programs are just that, a core plan for your successful recovery.
Knee arthroscopy | knee surgeon Perth
Recovery after knee arthroscopy
Most Knee Arthroscopy is day case surgery, and it’s not necessary to stay overnight. Crutches will only be required for a day or two, if at all. You are fit to drive as soon as you can walk comfortably.
For the first few days, it is best to potter around the house and spend a lot of time with the knee elevated and applying ice. The stitches are removed after seven to ten days, and it’s important to then get on with some exercises and a rehabilitation program.
Knee arthroscopy | knee surgeon Perth
Knee arthroscopy with Dr Colvin
Full recovery after Knee Arthroscopy usually takes several months. Dr Colvin will recommend a rehabilitation program to put you on the road to recovery. If you have any questions about knee surgery options in Perth, including Knee Arthroscopy, please get in touch with the Western Orthopaedic Clinic to book your appointment with the orthopaedic surgeon.