Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy
An Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure in which the surgeon utilizes a thin viewing tool known as an arthroscope to look inside and in other cases, fix the joint. Arthroscopic procedures have become common and an immediate solution to orthopedic patients that may require extended observations of the inner joint structures.
During the procedure, an incision is made and an arthroscope is inserted into your joint. This arthroscope consists of a video camera and a light source that help project images of your joint on the screen under magnification.
Depending on the purpose of the surgery, a sample of the joint tissue “biopsy” can be retrieved for further observations.
Why is an Arthroscopy Performed?
Evaluation & Diagnosis
Initially, X-rays, CT scans, blood tests, and even an MRI are performed to search for the problem in your joint. Cases where these fail to expose the issue, an Arthroscopy can be an option
Joint Surgery
In other cases, an arthroscopy can be used during a joint surgery to;
Repair your cartilage, ligaments, and tendons
Trim bone tissue with an intention of eliminating bone spurs or calcium deposits.
Retrieve a sample of tissue or fluid (synovial fluid)
Eliminate scar tissues
Cut ligaments
Preparing for an Arthroscopy
An arthroscopy is completely an outpatient procedure and those who may require an Arthroscopy Surgery in India must be calm since the surgery is;
Painless or produces a slight pain (regional or general anesthesia is administered)
Offers a quick recovery
Less costly
Quick
You will be asked several questions regarding your lifestyle, medical history, a previous joint injury, infection or treatment. The surgeon will also explain to you about the possible risks of the surgery depending on your case.
You will be required to report with a walker or a crutch in case the Arthroscopy is for the knee or a hip and a sling for the Arthroscopy of the arm.
Arthroscopy Cost
The city and the hospital highly determine your Arthroscopy Surgery Cost in India, but a patient must be informed that the procedure ranges from 69,000 rupees. Arthroscopic procedures are some of the regularly performed orthopedic procedures due to their efficacy.
Patients are able to return to their activities as soon as possible.
The possible risks
Arthroscopy procedures are commonly successful and offer no complications and risks, but in some cases, some patients experience;
Bleeding
Permanent joint pain
Reactions to general anesthesia
Compartment Syndrome
Damage to the nearby structures among others
To avoid such occurences, the procedure must be conducted by a well experienced orthopedic surgeon.
Frequently Ask Questions
How do I know if I need arthroscopy or full knee replacement?
If you have early stage arthritis or minor tears in the cartilage between your joints arthroscopy might be enough for treating this issue. If you have an advanced stage of bone-to-bone arthritis that interrupts your daily activities, it is best to get a total knee replacement surgery.
When is the right time to have this surgery?
When any of the medications, physiotherapy and lifestyle changes are not providing any further relief and your ability to move freely is strictly restricted, then it is time to consult an orthopedist in Ludhiana. The delaying of these things for too long can lead to bent, deformed joints and weaker muscle function.
Is arthroscopy only for athletes?
No, anyone with joint problems including tear in the ligaments, cartilage damage or chronic pain can undergo arthroscopy. It is an extremely safe procedure for anyone with no complications after the surgery.
How long does the surgery take?
Most commonly, a knee replacement surgery lasts for about fifty minutes to one and a half hours. Though even after the surgery is successful, you may be kept in the operating room for two to three hours.
How painful is the recovery process?
The pain through this surgery is extremely minimal as only small incisions are made in this unlike knee replacement surgery. The pain is usually highly manageable with proper medications and proper ice packing.
How soon can I walk after surgery?
You can generally start walking on the same day as general arthroscopy uses knee crutches for support. It is noticed that with proper care most people can start walking within two to seven days without any support. The normal walking after complete recovery will take about six to seven weeks.
Do I need to do physiotherapy after surgery?
Physiotherapy is essential after surgery and cannot be neglected for a quick recovery. It begins in the hospital and continues for six to twelve weeks to strengthen muscles and ensure a good range of motion.
When can I resume my daily activities?
You can easily resume your light daily activities within one to two weeks after arthroscopy. You can only do desk work for 1 to 2 weeks. For heavy work like physical demanding jobs you need at least 6 to 8 weeks of complete recovery. The other thighs that matter for resuming your daily activities is the speed of your recovery. If you are completely healed with proper care you can resume your work as early as possible.
Will I be able to do exercise or sit cross-legged after the surgery?
Yes, you will be able to exercise and sit cross-legged after arthroscopy surgery but not immediately. Light exercise like cycling can be started after one week but sitting cross legged should be avoided for at least six weeks to get the most effective results from the arthroscopic surgery. At our bone clinic in Ludhiana, we provide you proper guidance for your quick healing from surgery.
Is arthroscopy beneficial for treating ACL ligament tears?
Yes, arthroscopy is extremely beneficial for treating ACL ligament tears. This minimally invasive technique uses a mini camera and small instruments to reconstruct the torn ligaments with a graft. This procedure is highly beneficial in restoring knee stability with reduced pain and faster recovery compared to the traditional methods.
What is the cost of arthroscopy surgery in Punjab?
The cost of the knee replacement surgery differs based on the quality of the implants and the expertise of the doctors in Ludhiana. The average cost of arthroscopy surgery in India ranges from one lakh fifty thousand to four lakh fifty thousand for one knee, depending on the implant type.
How do I look after the incisions from the arthroscopy?
You have to keep the bandages dry and clean, the incisions made for this surgery is small and can get fully recovered within ten to fourteen days after that the bandages can be removed.
