Do I Need Arthroscopic Knee Surgery?

Knee pain changes lives. It can stop you from jogging, walking your dog, or playing with your grandkids. Sometimes, pain grows so severe that it interrupts daily activities or even your sleep. At that point, you might wonder whether you need surgery. Arthroscopic knee surgery is often mentioned as a less invasive option, but how do you know if you need it?

 

This article helps you understand when arthroscopic knee surgery might make sense. You will discover the signs to watch for and see how doctors make decisions about knees. Finally, you will find guidance on choosing the right orthopedic surgeon.

Understanding Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Arthroscopic knee surgery lets doctors look inside your knee using a small camera called an arthroscope. The surgeon makes tiny cuts and inserts the camera and tools to treat many knee problems. Since the incisions are small, recovery times are shorter. There is also less risk of major bleeding or big scars compared to open surgery.

 

Doctors use arthroscopy for several different issues:

• Torn cartilage or meniscus
• Damaged ligaments, such as the ACL or PCL
• Loose bone or cartilage fragments
• Swollen or damaged joint lining (synovium)
• Knee infections

 

Doctors often recommend trying non-surgical treatments before surgery. Options like rest, therapy, and medication usually come first. However, sometimes these steps do not help, and an ongoing knee problem may require surgery.

When You May Need Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Knowing when to move from conservative care to surgery is important. The following signs and situations often indicate that you may need arthroscopic knee surgery:

Severe or Persistent Knee Pain

If knee pain does not improve with medications, physical therapy, or rest, consider further evaluation. Pain that continues for weeks or months may indicate a problem that surgery can address.

Locking, Catching, or Giving Way

Some injuries, like a torn meniscus or loose cartilage, can make your knee lock up or feel stuck. Sometimes, you may feel or hear clicking or popping when you bend your knee. If your knee gives way or cannot straighten fully, these are signs there may be a mechanical issue inside. Arthroscopic surgery can remove or repair the problem tissue.

Swelling That Keeps Coming Back

Watch out for recurrent swelling after minor activity or swelling that never goes away. These may show that something inside the knee is aggravating the joint. A damaged meniscus or inflamed lining could be the culprit. Surgery can help resolve these sources of chronic inflammation.

Sports Injuries That Do Not Heal

Athletes often injure ligaments or cartilage in the knee. While some can heal with rest and rehab, tears in structures like the ACL or meniscus may not repair on their own. Continuing pain, instability, or repeated swelling after a sports injury may mean you need an arthroscopy.

Unsuccessful Non-Surgical Treatments

Most doctors start with non-surgical options like rest, braces, pain relievers, and physical therapy. Is it difficult to bend or extend your knee after months of these treatments, or does the pain keep returning? If either is the case, surgery may be the next step.

Abnormal Imaging Results

X-rays, MRI scans, or ultrasounds may reveal torn soft tissues or floating fragments inside your joint. When your symptoms and imaging match up, your doctor might suggest surgery.

Factors Unique to You

The decision for surgery is always personal. Age, activity level, job, and individual health all play a part. Young athletes with a ligament tear may benefit from surgery to restore stability. Older adults with more severe arthritis may need other options, while some may still benefit from a small repair.

How to Find the Best Orthopedic Surgeon for Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Finding the right specialist is vital to your recovery and outcome.

Board Certification and Training

Choose a surgeon who is board-certified in orthopedic surgery. Ask if they specialize in arthroscopic surgeries and how many procedures like yours they perform yearly.

Experience With Your Condition

Find someone who routinely treats your specific knee problem, such as meniscus repairs or ligament reconstruction. Experience plays a big role in a successful surgical procedure.

Reviews and Referrals

Read reviews online and ask your primary care provider for recommendations. Talk to friends or family who have had similar procedures.

Hospital Quality

Consider the hospital or surgical center where your surgeon operates. A clean, well-equipped facility with a track record of successful surgeries is important. It improves your chances of a safe procedure and a quick recovery.

Communication and Comfort

Meet with your surgeon before surgery. Make sure they answer your questions clearly and explain the process. Feeling comfortable and understood plays a part in a successful treatment plan.

Insurance and Location

Confirm your insurance covers the procedure and that you will not face excessive out-of-pocket costs. Also, ensure the location is easy to reach, especially for follow-up visits.

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery in St. Peters, O’Fallon, & Wentzville, MO

Arthroscopic knee surgery can be a great option for people who have not found relief with non-surgical treatments. If your knee pain does not improve or if you experience catching, swelling, or your knee gives way, surgery may help you. The right orthopedic surgeon makes all the difference in your outcome.

 

As the best orthopedic clinic near you, Advanced Bone & Joint offers expert care for all knee conditions. Our skilled surgeons use the latest techniques to ensure the best results. If you want to find out if arthroscopic knee surgery is right for you, call us at (636) 229-4222. Alternatively, you can use our online appointment request form.

 

The best orthopedic surgeon looks forward to serving you!

 

 

 

Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17153-knee-arthroscopy

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/arthroscopy/about/pac-20392974