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?
ANSWER: I think it is a fine idea for a number of very good reasons.
If your 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, arthroscopy 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.
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.
