Treatment FAQ

why would you do radiation treatment right after an arthroscopic surgery on a knee

by Layla Ziemann Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

Radiation to Prevent Abnormal Bone Growth after Total Hip Replacement Radiation treatment is used for more than just cancer. It also helps prevent a condition called heterotopic ossification (HO).

Full Answer

Why should I have arthroscopic surgery on my knee?

Radiation treatment is used for more than just cancer. It also helps prevent a condition called heterotopic ossification( HO). HO is an overgrowth of bone that is not malignant. It’s also known as myositis ossificans. Some patients receiving a total hip replacement are at risk for HO. Preventing this problem is a goal after surgery.

What happens after arthroscopic knee surgery?

Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT): intraoperative radiation therapy is delivered directly to a tumor site after the tumor has been removed during surgery. The treatment comes from a radioactive source fed through wires that are placed on the tumor. The technique may be used for a rectal tumor that has infiltrated muscles or bones in the pelvis, or in cases where rectal …

Can I play sports after knee arthroscopy?

 · Arthroscopic knee surgery or “knee scope” surgery is a minimally invasive knee surgery that aims to preserve tissue and in turn speed up healing time compared to an open procedure, if possible. Orthopedic Surgeons perform millions of knee scopes each year for this reason. The rate continues to rise as more complex arthroscopic procedures ...

How do I heal after arthroscopic knee surgery?

 · Arthroscopic surgery can diagnose and treat knee injuries, including: torn anterior or posterior cruciate ligaments torn meniscus (the cartilage between the bones in the knee)

What happens after arthroscopic knee surgery?

Your Recovery Your knee will be swollen. And you may notice that your skin is a different colour near the cuts (incisions). The swelling is normal and will start to go away in a few days. Keeping your leg higher than your heart will help with swelling and pain.

What is the fastest way to recover from arthroscopic knee surgery?

5 Tips for Getting Back in the Game After Arthroscopic Knee...Manage pain and swelling as prescribed. Pain is a natural part of knee arthroscopy and the healing process. ... Commit to your physical therapy treatment plan. ... Set realistic goals. ... Make lifestyle changes, if necessary. ... Wear a knee brace for added support.

How long does it take to walk after arthroscopic knee surgery?

The patient should be able to bear weight on the knee while standing or walking, immediately after surgery with a brace. The patient is expected to walk with crutches for 4-6 weeks after surgery.

Is knee arthroscopy major surgery?

Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure doctors use to look at, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint. It's a minor surgery and is done on an outpatient basis, which means you can go home the same day.

Is walking good after knee arthroscopy?

Avoid walking for long distances for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. 2. Continue to ice the knee to reduce pain and swelling.

How long will my knee hurt after arthroscopic surgery?

Pain is quite common, most often in the area where you had pain before surgery, in the soft tissues below the knee cap, over the athroscopy wounds and occasionally the whole knee. The pain settles usually within two to three weeks, but may take upwards of six weeks.

What are the complications of arthroscopy?

The possible complications following a knee arthroscopy include:Infection.Thrombophlebitis (clots in a vein)Artery damage.Excessive bleeding (haemorrhage)Allergic reaction to the anaesthesia.Nerve damage.Numbness at the incision sites.Ongoing pain in the calf and foot.

Can you climb stairs after arthroscopic knee surgery?

Avoid activities that cause pain or swelling to the knee. Examples include climbing stairs or standing or sitting for long periods. Begin other activities as advised by your doctor.

How do you sleep after arthroscopic knee surgery?

Sleep with your knee raised, but not bent. Put a pillow under your foot. Keep your leg raised as much as possible for the first few days. You may shower 24 to 48 hours after surgery, if your doctor okays it.

Does knee arthroscopy lead to knee replacement?

Conclusions: In patients with knee osteoarthritis arthroscopic knee surgery with meniscectomy is associated with a three fold increase in the risk for future knee replacement surgery.

How long after knee arthroscopy can I drive?

After simple right knee arthroscopy, the common consensus indicates that patients may safely return to driving 1 week postoperatively when they are narcotic-free and feel safe to control their vehicle.

Does arthroscopic knee surgery help arthritis?

Making the knee shiny and new with arthroscopy For severe cases, surgery can help ease the nagging, intense pain that comes with arthritis. Knee arthroscopy is the most common procedure done on the knees. The goal is to repair or replace damaged cartilage.

What Is Arthroscopic Knee Surgery?

Arthroscopic knee surgery or “knee scope” surgery is a minimally invasive knee surgery that aims to preserve tissue and in turn speed up healing ti...

Reasons For Needing Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Candidates for arthroscopic surgery range from someone who has gradually worsening pain with knee “crepitus” or knee grinding — to someone with lig...

Benefits and Risks of A Knee Scope

There is a relatively quick turnaround time and positive outcomes surrounding knee scopes, pending there is no other structural damage in the knee....

Preventing Or Avoiding Total Knee Replacement

If injections and Physical Therapy have failed to provide pain and function improvements, a scope surgery may help put off or avoid an otherwise in...

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Arthroscopic Knee Surgery?

Several factors affect the recovery following a knee scope. 1. Patient prior level of activity and fitness level 2. Extent of damage in the joint 3...

Knee Surgery Recovery Timeline

A patient will likely be sore, stiff, and feel weak in their quadriceps following surgery. Removal of the wound dressing at the surgical incision s...

Exercises After Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

The physical therapist will prescribe exercises and functional movements as appropriate to help the patient return to higher level of function.The...

How long does it take to recover from knee surgery?

How Long Does it Take to Recover from Arthroscopic Knee Surgery? 1 Patient prior level of activity and fitness level 2 Extent of damage in the joint 3 Work of surgeon 4 Lack of surgical complications and post-op healing 5 Patient compliance with post-op precautions 6 Physical Therapist and patient progress in PT

How long does it take for a wound dressing to be removed after quadricep surgery?

Removal of the wound dressing at the surgical incision sites occurs 1-3 days after the operation.

What is knee scope?

Arthroscopic knee surgery or “knee scope” surgery is a minimally invasive knee surgery that aims to preserve tissue and in turn speed up healing time compared to an open procedure, if possible. Orthopedic Surgeons perform millions of knee scopes each year for this reason. The rate continues to rise as more complex arthroscopic procedures become ...

Can a torn ligament be repaired?

A torn ligament such as an ACL or PCL will likely need repaired if the patient is wish ing to return to higher levels of activities requiring a stable knee. The same could be said for a patient with a meniscus tear that needs to be repaired (not just just removed).

What are the risks of surgery?

With surgery, there is always an inherent risks and possibility of an unsuccessful surgery that a patient is assuming. Infection, clots, bleeding in the joint, damaged connective tissue or nerves, etc. These are all possible poor outcomes following the surgery.

How long does it take for a scope to heal?

Either way, usually it only takes 7-14 days for the scope holes to heal and stitches to come out.

What is the procedure called when you insert a camera into your knee?

Knee arthroscopy is a surgical technique that can diagnose and treat problems in the knee joint. During the procedure, your surgeon will make a very small incision and insert a tiny camera — called an arthroscope — into your knee. This allows them to view the inside of the joint on a screen.

How does a knee surgeon see inside the knee?

The surgeon will begin by making a few small incisions, or cuts, in your knee. Sterile salt water, or saline, will then pump in to expand your knee. This makes it easier for the surgeon to see inside the joint. The arthroscope enters one of the cuts and the surgeon will look around in your joint using the attached camera.

What are the risks of surgery?

There are risks associated with any type of surgery, though they are rare. Every surgery has the following risks: 1 excessive bleeding during the procedure 2 infection at the site of the surgery 3 breathing difficulties caused by anesthesia 4 allergic reaction to anesthesia or other medications administered during surgery

What is the best way to diagnose knee pain?

In either case, an arthroscopy is a useful way for doctors to confirm the source of knee pain and treat the problem. Arthroscopic surgery can diagnose and treat knee injuries, including: torn meniscus (the cartilage between the bones in the knee)

What is a torn meniscus?

torn meniscus (the cartilage between the bones in the knee) patella that’s out of position. pieces of torn cartilage that are loose in the joint. removal of a Baker’s cyst. fractures in the knee bones. swollen synovium (the lining in the joint)

How to stop knee pain from swelling?

At home, you should have someone look after you, at least for the first day. Try to keep your leg elevated and put ice on it for a day or two to reduce swelling and pain.

How to reduce swelling in leg?

At home, you should have someone look after you, at least for the first day. Try to keep your leg elevated and put ice on it for a day or two to reduce swelling and pain. You’ll also need to change your dressing.

Why does my knee swell after arthroscopy?

In addition, some patients who have an arthroscopic surgery have persistent swelling as a result of lingering inflammation from the trauma of surgery.

What is arthroscopic surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is used to see inside your knee joint, and repair or remove any damage. While this all sounds gentle and noninvasive, it needs to be understood that your body will react to the trauma of surgery.

What is the condition called when you have a knee arthroscopy?

One complication that has been linked to knee arthroscopy is a condition called spontaneous osteonecrosis of the knee, or SONK. 7  This condition is most often found in middle-aged women who have a knee arthroscopy. After their surgery, they develop persistent pain, typically along the inner (medial) side of the knee. 8 

What is SONK in knee?

SONK is a condition that causes inflammation within the bone. While the condition is called osteonecrosis, a word that means there is spontaneous bone cell death, the problem has been thought to be the result of microscopic fracture of the bone around the knee joint.

What is the best way to recover from knee surgery?

Exercises are of paramount importance in recovery from arthroscopic knee surgery. The patients who undergo reconstructive surgeries or repair of the ligaments or the meniscus, need prolonged physical therapy to get back to the level of activities as before the injury.

Can you play sports after knee surgery?

The patients who have undergone successful knee arthroscopic surgery are usually allowed to participate in activities and sports as they would wish to after proper rehabilitation and regaining of power, strength and movement in the knee.

How long does it take to recover from ACL surgery?

The patients with ACL reconstruction may take up to 6 to 12 months to be able to return to the same level of competitive play as they were before the injury.

How long does swelling last after knee surgery?

The swelling is usually controlled within a week of the surgery. The patients, who undergo ligamentous reconstruction or procedures like lateral release, may have prolonged swelling. Rarely a prolonged effusion may need aspiration of blood from the knee.

Can you drive home after surgery?

The patient will not be able to drive back from the hospital after the surgery. They are advised to bring a friend or family member with them to drive them home back from the hospital. Occasionally the surgery center may help provide transport to the patient back to home.

How long does it take to recover from knee arthroscopy?

For example, arthroscopy of the knee takes about an hour. After that, you'll be taken to a separate room to recover for a few hours before going home. Your aftercare may include: Medications. Your doctor may prescribe medication to relieve pain and inflammation. R.I.C.E.

How long does it take to recover from arthroscopic surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery usually doesn't take long. For example, arthroscopy of the knee takes about an hour. After that, you'll be taken to a separate room to recover for a few hours before going home.

What is an arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy (ahr-THROS-kuh-pee) is a procedure for diagnosing and treating joint problems. A surgeon inserts a narrow tube attached to a fiber-optic video camera through a small incision — about the size of a buttonhole. The view inside your joint is transmitted to a high-definition video monitor.

Can a surgeon see inside a joint?

Arthroscopy allows the surgeon to see inside your joint without making a large incision. Surgeons can even repair some types of joint damage during arthroscopy, with pencil-thin surgical instruments inserted through additional small incisions.

Is arthroscopy a safe procedure?

Risks. Arthroscopy is a very safe procedure and complications are uncommon. Problems may include: Tissue or nerve damage. The placement and movement of the instruments within the joint can damage the joint's structures. Infection. Any type of invasive surgery carries a risk of infection. Blood clots.

How long should you wait to eat before anesthesia?

Depending on the type of anesthesia you'll have, your doctor may want you to avoid eating solid foods eight hours before your procedure. Arrange for a ride. You won't be allowed to drive yourself home after the procedure, so make sure someone will be available to pick you up.

Can you be unconscious during anesthesia?

Depending on the length of the operation, it may be better for you to be unconscious during the procedure . General anesthesia is delivered through a vein (intravenously). You'll be placed in the best position for the procedure you're having. This may be on your back or on your side.

Does radiation therapy have side effects?

It's very important to remember that every person reacts differently to treatment. Any side effect you might have depends on the type and location of cancer, the dose of radiation being given, and your general health. Some people have few or no side effects, while others have quite a few.

How to reduce side effects of radiation?

One way to reduce side effects is by using radioprotective drugs, but these are only used for certain types of radiation given to certain parts of the body. These drugs are given before radiation treatment to protect certain normal tissues in the treatment area. The one most commonly used today is amifostine.

How long does radiation side effects last?

Remember that the type of radiation side effects you might have depends on the prescribed dose and schedule. Most side effects go away within a few months of ending treatment. Some side effects may continue after treatment ends because it takes time for the healthy cells to recover from radiation. Side effects might limit your ability ...

How long does it take for radiation to cause side effects?

Late side effects can take months or even years to develop. They can occur in any normal tissue in the body that has received radiation. The risk of late side effects depends on the area treated as well as the radiation dose that was used. Careful treatment planning can help avoid serious long-term side effects.

How long does it take for side effects to show up after radiation?

Some side effects might show up quickly, but others might not show up until 1 to 2 years after treatment. Talk with your radiation oncologist about what to watch for and when to call your doctor. If the cancer is in many areas, sometimes the whole brain is treated with radiation.

What are the side effects of brachytherapy?

If your treatment includes brachytherapy (internal radiation implants), you might notice breast tenderness, tightness, redness, and bruising. You may also have some of the same side effects that happen with external radiation treatment.

What does it mean when your skin is red after radiation?

After a few weeks, your skin might become dry, flaky, or itchy, or it may peel. This is sometimes called radiation dermatitis. It’s important to let your cancer care team know about any skin changes.

How to recover from arthroscopic surgery?

2. Use crutches. Most likely you'll need to take some time off from your job, especially if it involves much standing, walking, driving or lifting. Recovery from simple arthroscopic procedures is usually relatively fast (a few weeks), but you may need to use crutches during that time.

How long does arthroscopic knee surgery last?

Almost all arthroscopic knee surgery is done on an outpatient basis and lasts only a few hours at most.

How many people have knee surgery?

Studies show that arthroscopic knee surgery is performed on almost 1 million people annually in the United States. [1] During the relatively quick procedure, the inside of the knee joint is cleaned up and mended with the aid of a pencil-sized camera, which allows for a more accurate diagnosis.

How to help inflammation in knee?

To help prevent inflammation in your knee naturally, elevate your leg higher than your heart level by using pillows to support the leg while you rest. This will help blood and lymph fluid return into circulation as opposed to collecting in your lower leg or knee.

How long does it take to recover from a knee injury?

If parts of your knee have been repaired or rebuilt, you may not be able to walk without crutches or a knee brace for several weeks, and full recovery may take several months to a year. Make sure your crutches fit your height, otherwise you might develop a shoulder injury. Alter your routine at work.

How to get rid of a swollen knee?

1. Start with non-weight-bearing exercise. After a few days, depending on your pain level, it should be safe to do some exercises while laying on the floor or bed. Regular exercise to restore your knee mobility and strength is necessary, and for the most part, it can be carried out at home.

How to rehabilitate a knee?

Progress to weight resistance exercise. The final phase of rehabilitating your knee involves using weight resistance via weight machines or exercise bikes. If you're not accustomed to going to the gym and weight training, then consider the help of a personal trainer or physical therapist.

Overview

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Arthroscopic knee surgery is a useful surgical procedure to manage and treat many common knee conditions. But not everyone finds relief of their knee pain after surgery. Reasons to have arthroscopic surgery on the knee joint include cartilage injuries, meniscus tears, ligament problems, and a variety of other condit…
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Treatment

  • Swelling is a difficult problem to resolve, as there are many possible causes, some of these listed below. In addition, some patients who have an arthroscopic surgery have persistent swelling as a result of lingering inflammation from the trauma of surgery. If more serious problems related to surgery, such as infection, has been eliminated treatments of swelling may include: While an inf…
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Signs and symptoms

  • Infection is a very uncommon complication of arthroscopic surgery, but it is the complication most feared by patients. Typical symptoms of infection include:
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Symptoms

  • When people have a knee injury, such as a torn meniscus or cartilage damage, they can develop poor mechanics of the knee joint. In order to protect their joint and reduce pain, people often limp or develop an abnormal gait. Once the problem is taken care of, patients may need to correct these mechanical abnormalities of knee function.
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Risks

  • One complication that has been linked to knee arthroscopy is a condition called spontaneous osteonecrosis of the knee, or SONK. This condition is most often found in middle-aged women who have a knee arthroscopy. After their surgery, they develop persistent pain, typically along the inner (medial) side of the knee.
See more on verywellhealth.com

Clinical significance

  • SONK is a condition that causes inflammation within the bone. While the condition is called osteonecrosis, a word that means there is spontaneous bone cell death, the problem has been thought to be the result of microscopic fracture of the bone around the knee joint. These subchondral fractures cause inflammation within the bone and significant pain. The pain is typic…
See more on verywellhealth.com

Causes

  • Probably the most common reason why patients have persistent pain after arthroscopic knee surgery is that their knee has damage to the cartilage of the joint that can't be adequately repaired by an arthroscopic procedure.
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