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Monday, August 24, 2009

What You Should Know About Arthroscopy

By Dr. Richard Edelson

The Steps of An 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.

Your medical history will involve questions about your knee problems as well as questions about your general health and lifestyle.

He or she will focus mostly on your knees and your legs during the physical examination. It will be necessary to determine the stability and strength of your knee as well as the extent of your ROM (range of motion). Also, the orthopedic surgeon will want to check your legs alignment.

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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Your orthopedic surgeon will review any risks involved in the options available to you.

Your orthopedic surgeon will be more likely to recommend arthroscopy for you if you have experienced any of the following: Problems with the performance of your knee, such as giving way or catching. Persistent swelling and pain. Exhaustion of options, such as knee braces, medications, and physical therapy. Or if you just generally dont feel safe performing your ADL (activities of daily living) because of an unreliable knee, you may be a good candidate for arthroscopy.

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.

Preparing Yourself for Arthroscopy

When you are ready to go ahead with your procedure, your orthopedic surgeon will ask that your M.D. perform a complete physical examination. This precautionary measure will catch any physical condition you may have that might interfere with your procedure.

Additional testing may be requested at this time. Your orthopedic surgeon may ask that your doctor conduct more blood tests or a cardiogram or any other test that may be beneficial to overall familiarity with your health. All of these precautions work together to ensure that you will have a safe surgical procedure.

If you are taking any medications or nutritional supplements, be sure to inform your doctor and your orthopedic surgeon so that they can instruct you properly as to what you must discontinue before your procedure. - 17273

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