Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical process to treat or diagnose knee injuries and conditions. It is performed orthopeadic surgeon with the help of an arthroscope. An arthroscope contains a small camera that provides a clear view of the knee joint. This is a popular surgical procedure because it has been found that it is an effective method for treating a range of knee problems in the bone or cartilage.

Preparing for knee arthroscopy surgery is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful procedure. Following the steps and the health care provider's instructions is advisable to get a maximum outcome. 

Explore important parameters to safely prepare yourself for knee arthroscopy surgery, including consultations with the surgeon, pre-operative instructions, anesthesia considerations, lifestyle modifications, etc. 

What is knee arthroscopy?

In knee arthroscopy, small incisions in the knee are made, and a tiny camera, called an arthroscope, is inserted into the joint. The surgeon visualizes the knee completely and performs surgery to repair ligaments or meniscus through small incisions. This procedure helps diagnose and treat knee issues such as torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), damaged cartilage, inflamed soft tissues or loose bone, etc. In knee arthroscopy, the surgeon uses surgical tools to repair damaged tissue and remove inflamed tissue and other knee joint issues. This outpatient procedure means you are discharged on the same day after surgery. 

Knee arthroscopy is considered superior to traditional open surgery as it involves small incisions, less pain, faster recovery, and improved outcomes.

What to do if you are preparing for knee arthroscopy surgery?

Scheduling a consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon is the first step when preparing for knee surgery. It is necessary to assess your knee's condition and discuss the symptoms and medical history. It will help determine whether knee arthroscopy is the appropriate treatment for you. 

Consult with a healthcare provider

Consulting a healthcare provider is the first step in preparing for knee arthroscopy surgery. To check the compatibility of knee surgery, consulting with a healthcare provider is essential.

If the physical therapy sessions can not provide you with any benefit, then your physical therapist may recommend knee arthroscopy. It is advisable to get a consultation from an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in knee surgeries. 

An orthopaedic will evaluate your knee condition adequately. An orthopaedic specialist, with his experience and expertise, will provide a comprehensive diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment options. He will also inform you about knee arthroscopy's benefits, possible risks, and outcomes.

Understand the surgeon's recommendations

Understanding the surgeon’s recommendations will help explain the details of the procedure, including the knee problems, and it will benefit your knee health. This will help you decide on proceeding with the surgery with informed possible outcomes. 

Discuss health conditions and medications

Provide a complete medical history to your doctor if having other health conditions, allergies, or any past major or minor surgeries. Inform your surgeon if you take prescription, over-the-counter medications, or other dietary supplements. 

Adjust the dose or temporarily stop taking them as per the healthcare provider's advice before the surgery. It is crucial to communicate and provide relevant information to your healthcare team. 

Pre-operative instructions

While preparing for knee arthroscopy surgery, some of the key instructions are important to follow to prepare yourself physically, logistically, and medically for arthroscopic knee surgery, such as:

Follow the surgeon’s instructions

The guidelines by the surgeon may include dietary restrictions, medication alterations, and specific advice regarding pre-operative procedures. Complying with these instructions will help perform safe and successful surgery.

Schedule the surgery at a hospital or surgery center

After consulting your healthcare provider, schedule the knee arthroscopy surgery at a hospital. The healthcare team will give a comprehensive overview of the process and provide information about the surgery's date, time, and location. Further, clarify if you still have any questions or concerns you may have.

Arrange transportation for the day of surgery

For knee arthroscopic surgery, arrange transportation to the surgeon’s office for the day of surgery.  Avoid driving yourself because you may feel discomfort or knee pain due to the anesthesia. Take one of your family members, friend, or caregiver with you so that he or she can drive you back safely.

Obtain necessary medical evaluations

It is important to take medical clearances if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. Clearances from a cardiologist or pulmonologist are required to ensure that you are in the best possible health for the procedure. 

Prepare for anesthesia

It is essential to prepare yourself for anesthesia while preparing for knee arthroscopy surgery. Key things to consider are:

Understand the type of anesthesia used

Make sure you know what type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery. There are different types of anesthesia, such as general anesthesia, regional anesthesia (spinal or epidural), or local anesthesia with sedation to perform knee arthroscopy. Your anesthesia provider will discuss the anesthesia plan and its implications for your surgery.

Discuss anesthesia and pain medicine options

Discuss pain management during or after the surgery with your healthcare team, including the anesthesiologist. Ask them about the pain medication option's benefits, potential risks, and side effects. After assessing each parameter, you can make informed decisions and address concerns or preferences.

Manage medications

Some of the key considerations for managing medications while preparing for knee arthroscopy are:

Review current medications 

Review all the medicines, including prescription, over-the-counter, and dietary supplements, with your healthcare provider. Provide information regarding the dosage and frequency of each. This will help minimize any potential drug interactions with anesthesia that may affect the surgical procedure.

Adjust medication usage

After review, your surgeon may adjust the dosages or usages of medications before the surgery. He may reduce or temporarily stop medications to avoid the risk of complications during and after the procedure.  

Temporary cessation of blood thinners if necessary

Blood thinners or anticoagulants are medications to prevent the formation of blood clots. Anticoagulant medicines such as warfarin or other similar drugs, i.e., aspirin, may increase the risk of bleeding. Your healthcare provider may advise temporary cessation of these medications before the surgery. 

Lifestyle and dietary changes

You may also need to change your lifestyle and dietary intake when preparing for knee arthroscopy surgery; they are as follows:

Make dietary changes before surgery

Consuming a balanced diet rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals is advisable to promote overall well-being. These nutrients play an important role in the healing process and recovery after surgery.

Stop eating and drinking 

You will be asked to avoid eating and drinking and given specific fasting guidelines. Typically, you will be advised to stop eating and drinking 8 to 12 hours before your surgery. Follow these guidelines for the specified time before the surgery as it is necessary to prevent complications such as aspiration during the surgery.

Limit alcohol consumption

Limit or abstain from alcohol consumption before knee arthroscopy surgery. Alcohol has the potential to interfere with the process of anesthesia. Alcohol may have adverse effects on the body's response to surgery. 

Prepare the Surgical Site

Follow instructions for hygiene and cleanliness

Your healthcare provider will give specific instructions on maintaining hygiene and cleanliness at the surgery site. Take a bath with an antibacterial soap before the surgery. This will help to reduce the risk of infection. Avoid applying lotions, creams, or oils to the surgical area.

Remove nail polish and accessories

Remove nail polish, acrylic nails, and other accessories from the surgery site. It will help to monitor oxygen levels more effectively during surgical procedures. It will also help assess your extremities' circulation, such as your legs, toes, and knees.

Prepare loose and comfortable clothing before surgery

Wearing loose and comfortable clothing on the day of the knee arthroscopic surgery will ensure easy put-on and take-off to avoid temporary discomfort. Loose clothing will not interfere with bandages or dressings applied to the surgical site.

On the day of surgery

Arrive at the hospital or surgery center

On-time arrival at the designated hospital will help you to complete the necessary preparations before the surgery. Arrange transportation, and start your journey early to avoid potential traffic or delays.

Check-in 

When you arrive, go to the check-in desk or reception area. Staff will assist you with the admission process and the necessary paperwork. It is important that you fill out all forms accurately and completely, including consent forms and insurance information. This helps us update your medical records and ensures that you receive appropriate care during your stay. 

Follow instructions

Follow any additional instructions given to you by your healthcare provider or surgical staff. These may include changing into a hospital gown, removing jewelry or accessories such as contact lenses, and following specific pre-operative procedures like using antiseptic solutions or wearing compression stockings to relieve pain. It is crucial to adhere to these instructions to maintain a sterile and safe surgical environment as well as surgical instruments in the operating room.

Recovery and post-operative care

After knee arthroscopy surgery, a journey of recovery and healing phase begins. Several strategies are utilized to ensure successful rehabilitation during the recovery process.

After the surgery, you will be shifted to the recovery room. Healthcare professionals will closely monitor several vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiration rate, etc. This ongoing monitoring ensures that any potential complications are promptly identified and addressed. They will manage the pain via analgesics according to the severity of the pain. 

They will utilize various strategies, such as administering certain medications, adjusting your positioning, providing ice packs, and keeping your leg elevated to alleviate any discomfort you may experience. They will also instruct you to avoid lifting heavy objects. The aim is to ensure you feel comfortable during this initial recovery phase.

Post-operative instructions and guidance

You will be directed to follow the post-operative healthcare provider's instructions and guidance. They provide instructions about wound care, medication management, activity restrictions, and the use of assistive devices. The doctor will advise that you limit activity for a few weeks or more while you heal. This means you cannot lift heavy things while the knee heals. If you have a desk job, the doctor may clear you to return to work quicker than if you have a more physically demanding job.

They will give you detailed information about the stages of your recovery. They will also instruct you on promoting healing while minimizing the risk of complications.

As you transition from surgery to the recovery phase, it is essential to follow the postoperative instructions. You must attend follow-up checkups and follow any prescribed rehabilitation exercises or physical therapy sessions. 

Doing so can optimize your recovery. Gradually, you will regain strength and function. By following healthcare provider instructions, you may achieve the best possible outcomes after knee arthroscopy surgery.

References

• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17153-knee-arthroscopy
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3117522/
• https://www.drlintner.com/contents/learn-more/surgery-information/pre-operative-instructions-knee-arthroscopy 
• https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/knee-arthroscopy/
• https://www.rcoa.ac.uk/patients/patient-information-resources/preparing-knee-arthroscopy 
• https://www.healthline.com/health/knee-arthroscopy 
• https://mammothhospital.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Knee20Scope20Instructions.pdf 
• https://www.caorthospine.com/instructions/post-operative-instructions-knee-arthroscopy/