$Unique_ID{BRK01344}
$Pretitle{Special Procedures and Laboratory Tests, Musculoskeletal System and
Connective Tissue}
$Title{Does Arthroscopy Hold the Promise of Real Help for Knee Injury?}
$Subject{arthritis arthroscopy}
$Volume{P-17, M-17}
$Log{
Arthroscopy of the Knee Figure 1*0001801.scf
Arthroscopy of the Knee Figure 2*0001802.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Does Arthroscopy Hold the Promise of Real Help for Knee Injury?


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QUESTION:  I have been retired for quite a few years now, but try to maintain
an active life, taking regular brisk walks each evening.  Recently however, I
fell, and my left knee became swollen and painful.  Despite several weeks of
medication, I still can't walk properly, because my knee seems unable to
straighten out as it should.  Now my doctor wants me to go for "arthroscopy",
but I am very hesitant.  Do you think this is a good idea and does it hold the
promise of real help?

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ANSWER:  I think it is a fine idea for a number of very good reasons.  If you
injury had resulted in only a minor injury, the medications and the length of
time you have already been taking them, should have reduced all the symptoms
to a near normal state by this time.  Your description of reduced motion in
your knee can be caused by several situations, including torn cartilage in the
knee, damage to ligaments, or loose bodies of bone and calcium, broken off
during the accident from the bones of a knee that was already affected by
arthritis.  While x-rays, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are useful in
making a diagnosis, athroscopy will permit the physician to see the actual
state of your knee and actually repair some of the damage during the
operation.  The arthroscope is a telescope-like instrument, which is inserted
into the knee joint through a small incision.  Another incision, also quite
small is made on the other side of the knee, through which various surgical
instruments can be inserted and used to perform the operations which might be
indicated by your condition.  Damage to the cartilage may require that it be
partially removed.  Loose bodies can be removed, and other potential areas
that might become loose can be cleaned up, reducing potential irritation and
giving your knee a chance to heal.  The operation is a simple one, holds few
risks for someone who is in otherwise good condition and the recovery period
is quite brief, which will get you back to your regular activities in the
shortest possible time.  With this information in hand, you would be wise to
discuss this with your physician once again, to more fully understand your
problem and the potential benefits of the procedure he has advised.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
