Arthroscopic medial meniscal repair is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves repairing a tear in the medial meniscus, which is a crescent-shaped cartilage that acts as a shock absorber in the knee joint. The surgery is performed using a small camera called an arthroscope, which is inserted through small incisions in the knee joint.
The arthroscope provides a clear view of the torn meniscus, allowing the surgeon to repair the tear using small instruments. This procedure is generally preferred over a meniscectomy, which involves removing the damaged portion of the meniscus, as it preserves the meniscal tissue and helps to maintain the integrity of the knee joint.
- The medial meniscus is located on the inner side of the knee joint and is more commonly injured than the lateral meniscus, which is located on the outer side of the knee joint.
- A meniscal tear can occur due to sudden twisting or turning movements of the knee, or as a result of degenerative changes in the meniscal tissue due to aging or overuse.
- Symptoms of a meniscal tear can include pain, swelling, stiffness, and locking or catching of the knee joint.
In cases where conservative treatments such as rest, ice, and physical therapy have failed to relieve symptoms, arthroscopic medial meniscal repair may be recommended to restore normal knee function and prevent further damage to the joint.
Pre-op for Arthroscopic Medial Meniscal Repair
Pre-operative preparation is an essential component of the surgical process and can significantly affect the success of an arthroscopic medial meniscal repair in Chennai. Before the surgery, the patient will undergo a thorough evaluation by the surgeon to assess their overall health and any underlying medical conditions that may impact the procedure’s safety.
The surgeon may also order various imaging tests, such as an MRI, to evaluate the extent and location of the meniscal tear and any associated damage to the knee joint.
Additionally, the patient will receive instructions regarding pre-operative preparations, such as what to eat or drink before surgery, which medications to stop taking before the procedure, and what to expect on the day of surgery. It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully to minimize the risk of complications and ensure a smooth recovery.
Finally, the surgeon will discuss the details of the procedure, including any potential risks and benefits, and answer any questions the patient may have.
Arthroscopic medial meniscal repair in Chennai is typically performed as an outpatient procedure and can be done under general anesthesia or regional anesthesia. The surgery usually lasts between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the extent of the damage and the technique used by the surgeon.
During the procedure, the surgeon will make two to three small incisions around the knee joint. A small camera called an arthroscope is then inserted into one of the incisions, allowing the surgeon to visualize the inside of the knee joint on a monitor. Other specialized instruments are inserted through the other incisions to repair the torn meniscus.
The surgeon will begin by removing any damaged tissue or debris around the meniscus. If the tear is repairable, the surgeon will then use sutures or anchors to sew the edges of the torn meniscus back together. If the tear is not repairable, the surgeon will trim away the damaged portion of the meniscus.
Once the repair or trimming is complete, the arthroscope and instruments are removed, and the incisions are closed with stitches or surgical glue. A sterile dressing and a compression bandage will be applied to the knee to reduce swelling and support the joint during the initial recovery period.
Post-op for Arthroscopic Medial Meniscal Repair in Chennai
Post-operative care is a critical aspect of the recovery process following arthroscopic medial meniscal repair. After the arthroscopic medial meniscal repair in Chennai, patients are typically sent home with crutches and a brace to help protect the healing meniscus. They may also be prescribed pain medication to manage discomfort during the first few days after surgery.
It is important to keep the surgical site clean and dry during the first few days after the procedure. Patients should follow any instructions provided by their surgeon regarding wound care and changing dressings. They may also be advised to apply ice packs to the knee to reduce swelling.
Patients will need to rest and limit their activity during the first few weeks following surgery to allow the meniscus to heal properly. They should avoid any weight-bearing activity and may need to use crutches to move around. Depending on the severity of the injury and the type of repair, patients may need to wear a brace for several weeks or months.
Physical therapy is an essential part of the post-operative recovery process for arthroscopic medial meniscal repair in Chennai. Patients will typically begin physical therapy within a few days or weeks after surgery. The goals of physical therapy are to improve knee range of motion, strengthen the muscles around the knee, and promote healing of the repaired meniscus.
Recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the injury, the type of repair, and the individual patient. Most patients are able to return to normal activities within three to six months following arthroscopic medial meniscal repair. However, full recovery may take up to a year or more.
Rehabilitation is an important aspect of the recovery process following an arthroscopic medial meniscal repair in Chennai. The rehabilitation program aims to help patients regain strength and range of motion in the knee, and to promote healing of the repaired meniscus.
The rehabilitation program typically begins with the use of crutches for a period of time to avoid putting weight on the affected leg. Physical therapy exercises are then gradually introduced to improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the knee. These exercises may include quadriceps and hamstring strengthening, as well as balance and stability exercises.
As the rehabilitation progresses, patients may gradually begin to put weight on the affected leg and engage in more weight-bearing exercises. The length of the rehabilitation program can vary depending on the extent of the injury and the individual patient’s progress, but it typically lasts several weeks to several months.
It is important for patients to follow their rehabilitation program closely and to communicate with their healthcare provider about any concerns or changes in symptoms during the recovery process. With proper rehabilitation and adherence to the recommended guidelines, patients can often expect a full recovery and return to their normal activities.
