Arthroscopic knee surgery is the most commonly performed orthopedic (joint) procedure in the US. [1] During the relatively quick procedure, the inside of the knee joint is cleaned and repaired with the help of a pencil-sized camera, allowing a more accurate diagnosis. Due to the small incision and less damage to the surrounding muscles, tendons and ligaments, the healing time after arthroscopic
surgery is generally lower than with conventional open knee surgery. [2] However, it is still a fairly strict postoperative recovery routine to follow if you want to heal from an arthroscopic knee surgery.
Listen to your surgeon's instructions. After arthroscopic knee surgery, it is important to do what your doctor considers most appropriate for the best possible recovery. Your knee may not be perfect, but following certain advice on controlling inflammation and pain and stimulating healing will result in the best outcome for your particular injury.
Almost all arthroscopic knee operations are performed on an outpatient basis and take at most a few hours. [3] Arthroscopy can be performed under local, regional or general anesthesia, so you will not be in pain during surgery.
The most common conditions that justify arthroscopy of the knee include: torn meniscal cartilage, cartilage in the joint space (known as "joint mice"), torn or damaged ligaments, chronic inflamed synovium, improperly aligned patella, or removal of cysts behind the knee. [4]
Take medication as directed. Your doctor will recommend medications that are primarily for controlling pain and inflammation, but may also be used to fight off infection and / or blood clots, depending on your diagnosis, age, and overall health. Be careful not to take medicines on an empty stomach, as this may irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of gastric ulcer. [5]
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin can help you deal with inflammation and pain.
Analgesics such as opioids, diclofenac and paracetamol help relieve pain but not inflammation.
Antibiotics are prescribed to prevent infections, while anticoagulants prevent blood clots.
Increase your leg while you rest. To naturally prevent inflammation of the knee, raise your leg above the level of the heart by supporting the leg with pillows while resting. This helps the blood and lymph fluid to re-enter the circulation instead of collecting in the lower leg or knee. It's easier to lift your leg while lying on the couch instead of sitting in a chair.
Total bed rest is not a good idea for any type of musculoskeletal injury, as some movements (even limping in the house) are required to stimulate blood flow and healing. As such, some rest is good, but complete inactivity is counterproductive.
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