Here is the third and final installment of our knee pain management series, brought to you by Spine Center of Texas:
Knee Arthroscopy: What to Expect
Knee arthroscopy procedures have an overall 90% success rate. However, the exact probability of success depends on the following:
- The extent of the injury
- How complex the injury is
- Your age
- The presence of degenerative arthritis
- The time since the injury was incurred
- Your physical fitness and body mass index (BMI)
- Your compliance and discipline to your rehabilitation program
What are the risks of knee arthroscopy?
Spine Center of Texas will be explaining all the risks and potential complications of undergoing this type of surgery.
- Anesthesia – All anesthesia options are generally safe and effective, regardless of which you choose. What’s important is that you are healthy and have no underlying medical conditions which may cause a reaction with the anesthesia. Your surgeon will ask you to gain a preoperative clearance form a general physician to ensure that you are medically fit to undergo surgery.
- Infection – Infections are always a possibility for any type of surgery. Signs of infection post-surgery include swelling in the incision site or a fever. You will be given pre- and post-operative antibiotics to lower any potential risks.
- Chronic Stiffness -There is a chance that you may experience lasting stiffness in the area of the operation. Post operative physical therapy may be prescribed to prevent this type of complication.
- Blood clots – Any type of surgery may lead to bleeding, especially if the surgeon deemed it necessary to use a blood thinner. Blood clots are usually insignificant and may go away on their own, but surgery may be prescribed for serious cases.
Should I undergo knee arthroscopy?
Determining if knee arthroscopy is for you can be a challenging task, but that’s why Spine Center of Texas is here. As with any type of surgery decision, you don’t have to rush. Make sure you have understood each option in full detail before giving it a go. Ask questions if you have any. We always say that the key to optimal results is having the right information and being confident with your decision.
Remember that all knee arthroscopic surgeries are different since not all injuries are the same. Depending on the nature and demands of your workplace or favorite sports, you should be able to return to your normally active life between 3-6 weeks post surgery. Spine Center of Texas is happy to support you every step of the way. If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us.
