Knee Surgical Treatment Options

In some cases, surgery may be necessary. A surgical procedure, called arthroscopy, is used to visualize, diagnose and treat problems inside a joint. A small incision is made and pencil-sized instruments are inserted that contain a small lens and lighting system to magnify and illuminate the structures inside the joint.

Arthroscopic Procedures

• Repair or resection of torn cartilage (meniscus) from knee or shoulder
• Reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament in knee
• Removal of inflamed lining (synovium) in knee, shoulder, elbow, wrist, ankle
• Repair of torn ligaments
• Removal of loose bone or cartilage in knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle, wrist.

Potential Complications of arthroscopy include infection, blood clots, excessive swelling or bleeding, damage to blood vessels or nerves and instrument breakage. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, complications are infrequent and are usually minor and treatable.¹

Knee Rehabilitation

Performing rehabilitative exercises may gradually return full flexibility and stability to your knee. Building strength in your thigh and calf muscles to support the reconstructed knee is a primary goal of rehabilitation. You may also need to use a knee brace for a short time. It is important not to return to full activity too soon to prevent reinjury.