Knee injuries and degenerative conditions can have a significant impact on your mobility and quality of life. Fortunately, arthroscopic knee surgery offers a minimally invasive way to diagnose and treat knee problems.
At the practice of Matthew Pifer, MD, residents of Santa Barbara, California, and surrounding areas receive expert orthopedic care from a board-certified sports and shoulder surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive techniques.
Dr Pifer has extensive experience treating knee damage and restoring function. Arthroscopic surgery can restore stability and function with less downtime than open surgery.
Arthroscopic knee surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat knee joint injuries and conditions.
Instead of making a large incision, the surgeon inserts a tiny camera (arthroscope) through a small incision. This allows for a clear and magnified view of the inside of the knee.
Dr. Pifer makes additional small incisions where he inserts surgical instruments to repair or remove damaged tissue. This precision-based approach results in less trauma to surrounding tissues, reduced scarring, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Arthroscopy is used to treat a variety of knee conditions, including:
A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries, especially among athletes. Arthroscopic surgery allows our team to trim or repair the torn cartilage, restoring smooth knee movement.
Ligaments like the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and PCL (posterior cruciate ligament) play a crucial role in knee stability. Arthroscopy is often used in ligament reconstruction procedures for athletes and active individuals.
When cartilage wears down due to injury or early arthritis, arthroscopy can remove loose fragments, smooth damaged areas, or stimulate cartilage regrowth using advanced techniques.
Inflammation of the knee’s synovial lining can cause persistent pain and swelling. Arthroscopy allows for precise removal of inflamed tissue, relieving discomfort.
Recovery after arthroscopic knee surgery is typically quicker and less painful than traditional open surgery. However, proper care is essential for the best outcome. Most people can bear weight within a few days, but it’s necessary to limit activities initially to avoid unnecessary strain.
Swelling and discomfort are common in the first few days to a week, and icing the knee, elevating the leg, and taking prescribed medications can help manage symptoms.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in restoring strength, flexibility, and stability. Dr. Pifer provides a personalized rehabilitation plan based on the surgery and your goals. While light activities may resume within a couple of weeks, returning to sports or high-impact exercise typically takes a few months.
Following post-surgical guidelines and rehabilitation plans ensures a smooth recovery and the best long-term results.
Taking the proper precautions after arthroscopic knee surgery helps prevent complications and promotes long-term joint health. While recovery is faster than with open surgery, the knee remains vulnerable during the healing process.
Our team may recommend using crutches or a brace if needed to reduce strain, especially in the first few days. Ice, compression, and putting your leg up help reduce swelling, so make them part of your routine after surgery.
Additionally, gentle movement helps maintain flexibility. Avoiding high-impact activities and following physical therapy instructions are essential to prevent re-injury.
Patients should also monitor for signs of infection, excessive swelling, or persistent pain, which could indicate a complication requiring further evaluation. Prioritizing knee protection after surgery ensures a smoother recovery and long-term success.
Chronic knee pain doesn’t have to slow you down. If conservative treatments aren’t enough, arthroscopic knee surgery offers an effective, minimally invasive solution.
Rely on the practice of Matthew Pifer, MD, for expert orthopedic care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to learn if arthroscopic knee surgery is right for you.
