Arthroscopy and You

Orthopedic Knee Evaluation

Initially, you will see your family doctor about your knee problems. He or she will probably give you a referral to an orthopedic surgeon. When you see the orthopedic surgeon, three steps will be taken. You will give your medical history. You will receive a physical examination. Some tests will be ordered.

In your medical history, you will tell the orthopedic surgeon about your general health and answer some questions about the problems you have been experiencing with your knee(s).

The main focus of your physical examination will be your knee and your leg. The orthopedic surgeon will examine your knee to evaluate its stability, strength, and ROM (range of motion). He or she will also look at the alignment of your leg.

The tests that will be ordered for you will probably include blood tests that will help determine the presence of arthritis. Additionally, your orthopedic surgeon will order x-rays and perhaps an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). The latter will provide more in-depth information about the soft tissues of your knee. The type of images taken by the MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) differ from x-rays in that they are gathered using sound waves.

After your testing is finished, your orthopedic surgeon will meet with you to review the results. Together, you will decide what you must do to treat your knee condition. Your orthopedic surgeon will explain the options to you. They may include arthroscopy or other surgical procedures and/or medications.

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Any risks that may be involved in the procedures available to you will be explained at this time.

Arthroscopy is very likely to be recommended to you. It is the technique of choice under a number of circumstances, including: Exhaustion of options. If you have tried knee supports, medications, physical therapy, and a number of other things without relief, surgery with arthroscopy is a good choice. Additionally, if you are simply afraid to do the things you need to do because your knee hurts constantly, is swollen, gives out on you, catches, and is just generally undependable and painful, arthroscopy could certainly be your answer.

Arthroscopy is a procedure that is suitable and successful for a broad range of patients. It is usually used on patients ranging in age from twenty to sixty, but it is not limited to this age group. Ten-year-olds and eighty-year-olds have also had successful arthroscopic surgery.

How to Get Ready for Your Arthroscopy

When you have made your final decision to proceed with arthroscopy, your orthopedic surgeon will probably refer you back to your family doctor for a complete physical examination. By doing this, you will be fully informed about your overall health before undergoing surgery. If there are any problems that may interfere, they will be found during this complete physical examination.

Your doctor may do more tests at the request of the orthopedic surgeon. Sometimes a cardiogram is done. Sometimes more blood work is called for. In general, anything that will clarify your general condition so that your treatment can be exactly right for you, will be done.

If you are taking any over-the-counter products such as medications or supplements, remember to let your doctor and your orthopedic surgeon know about it. If you need to discontinue any of these products before surgery, they will inform you.

Dr. Edelson is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon specializing in sports medicine. His clinic, Sports Medicine Oregon, focuses on athletes of all ages. Click here to learn more about Dr. Edelson, Portland ACL Surgery and Portland Athletic Injuries.

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Written by Dr. Richard Edelson on September 10th, 2009 with no comments.
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