Arthroscopic Lateral Meniscal Repair

Arthroscopic lateral meniscal repair in Chennai is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat tears in the lateral meniscus of the knee. The lateral meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage located on the outer edge of the knee joint that helps cushion and stabilize the knee. Meniscus tears can occur from sudden twisting or turning of the knee, or from wear and tear over time. Arthroscopic lateral meniscal repair is typically performed as an outpatient procedure using small incisions and a camera (arthroscope) to visualize and repair the damaged meniscus. This procedure is designed to restore normal knee function, relieve pain, and prevent further damage to the joint.

Arthroscopic lateral meniscal repair in Chennai is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves repairing a tear in the lateral meniscus, which is the crescent-shaped cartilage located on the outer side of the knee joint. Meniscal tears are a common knee injury, and they can be caused by sudden twisting or pivoting movements, as well as gradual wear and tear over time.

The lateral meniscus is particularly prone to injury because it is smaller and more mobile than the medial meniscus, which is located on the inner side of the knee joint. When the lateral meniscus is torn, it can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the knee joint, as well as a feeling of instability or locking.

Arthroscopic lateral meniscal repair in Chennai is typically recommended for tears that are located on the outer edge of the meniscus and have a good blood supply, as these tears have a better chance of healing. During the procedure, a small camera called an arthroscope is inserted into the knee joint through a small incision, allowing the surgeon to visualize the tear and surrounding tissue. Small instruments are then used to remove any damaged tissue and repair the tear using sutures or other techniques.

Overall, arthroscopic lateral meniscal repair in Chennai is a safe and effective procedure that can help alleviate pain, restore mobility, and prevent further damage to the knee joint. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, and it is important for patients to discuss these with their surgeon and carefully follow all pre-and post-operative instructions.

Pre-op for Arthroscopic Lateral Meniscal Repair in Chennai

The preoperative process for arthroscopic lateral meniscal repair in Chennai begins with a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon. During this evaluation, the surgeon will review the patient’s medical history and perform a physical examination of the affected knee. The surgeon may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to better assess the extent of the injury.

If surgery is recommended, the patient will undergo a preoperative assessment to evaluate their overall health and fitness for surgery. This assessment may include blood tests, electrocardiograms, and other diagnostic tests, as well as a review of the patient’s medications and any allergies they may have.

The patient will also receive instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, which may include guidelines for fasting, stopping certain medications, and arranging for transportation to and from the hospital or surgical center. It is important to follow all preoperative instructions carefully to help ensure the surgery is successful and minimize the risk of complications.

Arthroscopic lateral meniscal repair in Chennai is typically performed under general anesthesia. After the patient is anesthetized, the leg is placed in a leg holder and a tourniquet is applied to the thigh. The surgeon will then make two or three small incisions near the knee joint and insert the arthroscope, which is a small camera that displays images of the inside of the joint on a monitor.

Once the arthroscope is in place, the surgeon will examine the meniscus to determine the extent of the damage. If the tear is repairable, the surgeon will use small surgical instruments to reposition the torn edges of the meniscus and stitch them back together using sutures or anchors. The surgeon may also trim any damaged or frayed edges of the meniscus to ensure a smooth surface.

After the repair is complete, the surgeon will remove the instruments and close the incisions with sutures or surgical tape. The knee will be wrapped in a compression bandage, and the patient will be taken to a recovery area for monitoring. The entire procedure usually takes about an hour.

Post-op for Arthroscopic Lateral Meniscal Repair

After the arthroscopic lateral meniscal repair in Chennai, the patient is typically taken to a recovery room where they are monitored for a short period of time. Pain management medication may be given to help manage any discomfort or pain. In some cases, the patient may be required to spend a night in the hospital for further observation.

The patient will typically need crutches to help them walk and will be advised to avoid placing any weight on the affected leg for a period of time. A knee brace may also be used to help support the knee during the healing process.

Physical therapy will be an important part of the post-operative recovery process, with a focus on restoring range of motion and strengthening the knee. The rehabilitation program may take several months and will depend on the extent of the injury and the surgical procedure performed. It is important to follow the rehabilitation plan prescribed by the surgeon and physical therapist to ensure the best possible outcome.

Rehabilitation after arthroscopic lateral meniscal repair in Chennai usually begins immediately after the surgery with simple exercises such as ankle pumps, quad sets, and straight leg raises. These exercises help to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and prevent blood clots.

During the first two weeks after surgery, patients may be instructed to use crutches to keep weight off the affected knee. Ice and compression may also be used to manage pain and swelling. As the healing progresses, patients will gradually increase their range of motion and begin to perform more challenging exercises such as lunges, squats, and leg presses.

The length of the rehabilitation process can vary depending on the extent of the injury and the patient’s overall health. It typically takes around 6-8 weeks for patients to return to normal activities and up to six months for the knee to fully heal. During this time, it is important to follow the rehabilitation plan provided by the surgeon or physical therapist to ensure a successful recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, arthroscopic lateral meniscal repair is considered a minimally invasive surgical technique. It involves small incisions and the use of an arthroscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera, to access and repair the lateral meniscus in the knee joint. This approach typically results in less tissue damage, reduced pain, and quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery for meniscal injuries. It’s a preferred method when suitable for the patient’s condition.

Recovery time after arthroscopic lateral meniscal repair can vary but typically ranges from 4 to 6 weeks. Patients may need crutches initially and then gradually resume normal activities. Physical therapy is often recommended to regain strength and mobility. Full recovery may take a few months, depending on the individual and the extent of the injury. It’s essential to follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions for the best outcome.

Yes, arthroscopic lateral meniscal repair in Chennai, like any surgery, carries potential risks. These risks can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, nerve or blood vessel damage, and anesthesia-related complications. There’s also a risk of recurrent tears or incomplete healing. Patients should discuss these risks with their surgeon before the procedure and follow post-operative instructions for the best outcomes.

Arthroscopic Lateral Meniscal Repair