KNEE ARTHROSCOPY 1 .

- Definition and description

Knee arthroscopy is a surgical technique that allows to see directly inside the
knee joint and work within it, without opening it. Is inserted inside the knee j
oint a small camera less than 6 mm in diameter through a small incision (thus ca
lled mini-invasive technique) and connects to a TV monitor. After entering the c
hamber a saline solution is injected to expand the joint and control bleeding. T
hus, the surgeon examines and repairs the tissues inside the joint with special
instruments to be introduced in coordination with other small incisions (one to
four) as the camera. When surgery is completed the salt solution is drained and
close the small incisions.
Since this technique is used rather than open surgery, the result is decreased p
ain and stiffness, complications, hospital stay (if required) and recovery time.
Indications Arthroscopy may be recommended for knee problems: The breaking of
the meniscus, either to repair or remove mild arthritis Loose bodies within
the knee joint, small pieces of broken cartilage An anterior or posterior cru
ciate ligament torn or damaged Inflammation or damaged lining of the joint (sy
novial) Misalignment of the knee bone (patella) Recovery and physical therapy
depending on the diagnosis and the operation performed as we see in the informat
ion may be prescribed, specific physical therapy to treat the injury. Varying lo
ng recovery times. The time you can return to sports or hard work depends on the
injury: from month and a half to several months. Treatment with the therapist s
eek to fulfill the following objectives: Decreased inflammation and pain. Pr
ogressive increase in mobility. Increased muscle tone loss of lower extremity

intervened. Proprioceptive work. Rehabilitation to normal in sports or activitie

s undertaken by the patient in their daily lives.
Bibliography and web pages related to the topic of interest: www.netdoctor
.es
www.doctor-rabat.net/es/artroscopia.htm www.medlineplus.gov / Spanish

"Handbook of physical therapy and functional rehabilitation, Yves Xhardez. Ed: E

l Ateneo. 2002.