What to Expect During Knee Surgery & How to Prepare
Knee surgery addresses pain and restores function, with options ranging from minimally invasive arthroscopy to open procedures. This guide covers what to expect during surgery, how to prepare, and recovery tips, helping ensure a smoother experience for those undergoing knee procedures.
Contents
Nearly 800,000 total knee replacements are performed each year, but this is only one of several types of knee surgeries. From minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures to open knee surgery, a surgical approach to knee pain is often necessary due to conditions such as arthritis, ligament injuries, and meniscal tears, which can cause debilitating pain and restrict daily activities.
By addressing these underlying issues, knee surgery can alleviate pain, restore function, and help you return to normal routines. However, reclaiming an active and pain-free life through knee surgery can be a daunting thought if you’re unprepared.
Read on for an in-depth look at what to expect during knee surgery, how to prepare for the procedure, and where to find the best knee surgeon in San Francisco.
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery vs. Open Knee Procedures
There are two ways to approach knee surgery: arthroscopic and open. Each method has advantages and is chosen based on the type and complexity of the knee surgery needed.
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
Arthroscopic knee surgery is a minimally invasive approach to orthopedic knee surgery that involves making small incisions in the knee to insert a tiny camera and other specialized surgical instruments. The camera, known as an arthroscope, allows the surgeon to view the inside of the knee on a monitor and perform the necessary repairs.
The benefits of arthroscopic knee surgery include:
Smaller incisions that lead to less tissue damage
Reduced postoperative pain and swelling
Faster recovery time compared to open surgery
Lower risk of infection thanks to smaller wound sizes
Often performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day
Arthroscopic knee surgery can be used for several common procedures, including repairing a torn meniscus, treating ligament injuries, and removing loose cartilage.
Open Knee Surgery
Open knee surgery involves a larger incision to access the knee joint directly. This traditional approach gives the surgeon a more comprehensive view and greater access to the affected area.
The benefits of open knee surgery include:
Better access for more complex and extensive repairs
Used for a wider range of knee conditions
Better visualization and access for the surgeon
The open knee approach is generally used for complex orthopedic surgeries, such as total knee replacement, ligament reconstruction, or tumor removal.
Choosing Between Arthroscopic and Open Knee Surgery
The choice between arthroscopic and open knee surgery depends on various factors, including the specific knee condition, the complexity of the required repair, your overall health, and your surgeon's expertise. Less complex and localized issues are well-suited for arthroscopic surgery, while more extensive and complicated conditions may require open knee procedures.
What to Expect During Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
Arthroscopic knee surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that requires less preoperative preparation and postoperative care. Knowing what to expect during the procedure can help alleviate anxiety and ensure a smooth surgical experience.
Before Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
1. You'll consult with an orthopedic surgeon to discuss your symptoms, medical conditions, risk factors, and the specifics of the procedure.
2. You'll receive specific instructions on preparing for surgery, including requirements for stopping food and drink before your surgery.
3. On the day of the surgery, you'll meet with an anesthesiologist who will discuss the type of anesthesia to be used. Options may include local, regional, or general anesthesia.
During the Procedure
1. Once in the operating room, the surgeon will make small incisions around the knee. Through these incisions, a sterile saline solution is pumped into the knee joint to expand it, making it easier to see inside.
2. The small camera, known as an arthroscope, is inserted through one of the incisions. This allows the surgeon to view the inside of the knee on a monitor.
3. Specialized instruments are inserted through other small incisions to perform the necessary repairs.
4. After the necessary repairs are completed, the saline solution is drained from the knee, and the incisions are closed with sutures or small adhesive strips. A sterile dressing is used to cover the incisions.
Postoperative Care
1. After the procedure, you'll be taken to a recovery room, where medical staff will monitor you as the anesthesia wears off.
2. Pain and swelling are common after any surgery. Pain medication like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ice packs, and elevation are often recommended.
3. Arthroscopic knee surgery is usually performed outpatient, meaning you can go home the same day. You'll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for a day or two.
4. Your surgeon will recommend appropriate types and amounts of physical activities, including physical therapy, after surgery. These are beneficial to your healing progress and important to prevent blood clots.
What to Expect During Open Knee Surgery
Open knee surgery is a more traditional and invasive approach to treating knee conditions. It involves making a larger incision to access the knee joint directly. Because it is more invasive, there are several differences when it comes to preparation and recovery.
Preparing for Open Knee Surgery
1. Similar to arthroscopic surgery, you will consult with your orthopedic surgeon before your surgery to discuss your health condition and the specifics of the procedure.
2. Preoperative instructions may include a longer fasting period than minimally invasive approaches. Additionally, you may need to use a specialized soap to wash your knee before arriving for your surgery.
3. Open knee surgery typically requires general anesthesia.
During Knee Surgery
1. You’ll receive anesthesia to help you relax and sleep through surgery. The surgeon will then make an incision over the knee to expose the joint. The size and location of the incision depend on the specific procedure being performed.
2. The surgeon will carefully move muscles, tendons, and other tissues aside to gain clear access to the knee joint.
3. After completing the necessary repairs, the surgeon will close the incision with sutures or staples before applying a sterile dressing to the wound.
Recovery from Knee Surgery
1. After surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery room as your anesthesia wears off.
2. Open knee surgery often requires a hospital stay to monitor your recovery and manage any pain or mobility issues within the first day or two.
3. Physical therapy is an important part of the recovery process after open knee surgery as it will help you regain strength, flexibility, and mobility in your knee.
How to Prepare for Knee Surgery
Simple preparations can ensure a smooth and successful experience regardless of the type of surgery you get and your surgeon's approach.
The first thing to remember is to follow your surgeon's preoperative instructions carefully — including requirements for fasting before the surgery and stopping specific medications that could interfere with the procedure. You should also arrange for someone to drive you to and from your surgery and stay with you for at least 24 hours post-surgery.
The following steps can help set up your home for recovery:
Place essential items within arm's reach
Prepare a comfortable resting area where you can elevate your legs
Stock up on groceries, medications, and necessary medical supplies, such as crutches or a mobility walker
If you smoke, consider quitting, as smoking can impair healing
Additionally, you should discuss any concerns or questions with your surgeon and ensure all your medical records and insurance information are current. By taking these steps, you can help facilitate a smoother surgical experience and a quicker recovery.
Where to Find the Top Knee Surgeon in San Francisco
Getting knee surgery can help you regain the pain-free freedom to enjoy activities and hobbies like you used to. However, to have the most successful outcome, you should trust your care to the capable hands of a highly skilled orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee surgery.
Dr. James Chen is an expert in orthopedic joint surgeries, including open and arthroscopic knee surgeries. Dr. Chen leads a dedicated surgical team that uses state-of-the-art technology and modern techniques linked with faster recovery rates and less pain — and his patient-centered approach to knee surgery has earned him a reputation for successful surgical outcomes in the Bay Area.
Ready to enjoy life with pain-free mobility after knee repair from San Francisco’s leading knee surgeon?
