Arthroscopy is the use of a miniature camera to view the interior of a joint. It is particularly useful when diagnosing and treating damaged or diseased knees. Using an arthroscope, an orthopedic surgeon can get a clear view of the inside of the knee and make a definite decision as to how to treat the condition.
Modern arthroscopes and high resolution cameras make this hi-tech solution a very effective method for diagnosis and treatment of ailing knees.
The Parts of the Knee
The knee is made up of three bones: The patella, the tibia, and the femur. The juncture of these bones is cushioned by articular cartilage, which allows them to move easily.
Synovial membrane coats the remaining surfaces of the knee. This thin, smooth tissue liner produces a unique lubricating fluid that prevents friction and allows the healthy knee to function smoothly.
The largest joint in the body, the knee is (as stated) made up of three bones. The upper end of the shin bone, or tibia, supports the lower end of the thigh bone, or femur. There is a groove in the end of the femur that the patella, or kneecap, slides along. Strong ligaments between the femur and tibia support the structure. The thighs large muscle provides strength.
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Knee Difficulties
When everything is functioning properly, the parts of the knee work together smoothly. However, the knee gets a lot of use, and everyday wear and tear can cause problems. Sports, work, injury, weakened tissues, arthritis, and aging all take a toll on the knee. Over the course of time, these things can cause a lot of pain and reduce the ability of the knee to do its job.
With arthroscopy, a number of conditions can be diagnosed and treated:
Chondromalacia, which is the softening of articular cartilage and/or damage to joint surfaces.
Crystalline arthropathy, is characterized by gouty arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and/or inflamed synovial membranes.
Patellar misalignment and/or instability.
Problems with the knee joint can be seen using arthroscopy.
Meniscal cartilage can become torn.
Loose and fragmented cartilage and bone.
Damaged cruciate ligaments (both posterior and anterior).
Arthroscopy is extremely useful to the orthopedic surgeon in locating and assessing all of these knee problems. The use of the modern technology helps todays orthopedic surgeon deliver efficient and effective treatment.
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