Knee Arthroscopy in Heidelberg

Before knee arthroscopy, your doctor may give you a local, regional, or general anesthetic. Your surgeon will make a few small incisions in your knee and insert an arthroscope (a small instrument with a tiny camera attached to it). The tiny camera allows your surgeon to identify any problems and if the problem can be fixed with arthroscopy, your surgeon may insert a small surgical tool through the arthroscope to correct the issue. 

Knee arthroscopy may be performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you may leave the hospital on the same day. However, you will be required to stay in Heidelberg for at least 7 days for follow-up hospital checkups with your surgeon where your progress will be monitored continuously.

You may be able to resume some light activities and desk work within 5-7 days. You will likely be able to drive within one to three weeks, but allow around 6 to 8 weeks before you resume other physical activities.

Try to keep your leg elevated and put ice on your knee for the first few days to reduce pain and swelling. Exercise is an important part of treatment and your surgeon or a physical therapist may teach you the best exercises to strengthen the muscles around your knee. Your surgeon will likely give you specific instructions about the aftercare and ensure to follow the instructions.

The alternative to knee arthroscopy depends on your specific case. Therapy to strengthen your muscles, medications, injections (hyaluronic acid, corticosteroids, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP)), and partial knee replacement surgery can be the alternatives. Discuss with your doctor which one is the best option for your case.