Post-Operative Care and Concerns After Knee Arthroscopy Surgery

Postoperative care after knee arthroscopy?

I discovered a loose body in my knee and underwent arthroscopic surgery on January 31 to remove it.
During the procedure, the doctor found that I had cartilage damage, so he drilled a few holes in the cartilage to see if it would regenerate over the next three months.
However, on February 7, I was eager to start training my thigh muscles, so I lay in bed and performed a slight knee flexion leg lift.
I initially intended to do a straight leg raise, but due to weakness in my thigh, I could only lift my leg with a slight bend.
Starting the next day, I began to feel a sensation of something being stuck at the left side of the knee where the stitches are.
Whenever I bend my knee, I feel it, and the pain has been increasing, making it difficult to walk.
Prior to February 7, everything felt normal, and I couldn't feel the stitches at all.
However, since it is currently the Lunar New Year holiday, I am unable to consult my attending physician and will have to wait until February 17 to have the stitches removed.
Is this a normal phenomenon? What can I do to alleviate the sensation of something being stuck?

Xin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/12

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

You can take pain relievers to alleviate discomfort, but avoid excessive bending of the knee joint.
Please consult your physician in detail during your follow-up appointment.

Reply Date: 2024/02/12

More Info

Post-operative care after knee arthroscopy, especially following procedures that involve cartilage repair or removal of loose bodies, is crucial for optimal recovery. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing some common post-operative issues, including discomfort at the incision site and a sensation of tightness or "catching" in the knee. Let's address your concerns systematically.

1. Understanding Your Symptoms: The sensation of tightness or a "catching" feeling in the knee after surgery can be attributed to several factors. After arthroscopy, especially when cartilage is involved, it is not uncommon to experience swelling and discomfort as the body heals. The sutures themselves can also contribute to a feeling of tightness, particularly if the surrounding tissues are inflamed or if there is scar tissue formation.
2. Post-Operative Pain and Swelling: It is normal to experience pain and swelling after knee surgery. The first few weeks post-surgery are critical as the body begins its healing process. You mentioned that you felt fine before starting your exercises, but after attempting to engage your quadriceps, you experienced discomfort. This could be due to overexertion, especially if the muscles are still weak from disuse. It is essential to listen to your body and not push through pain, as this can lead to further complications.

3. Activity Modification: Given that you are experiencing pain after attempting to strengthen your quadriceps, it may be wise to modify your rehabilitation exercises. Instead of performing straight leg raises or other exercises that may strain the knee, consider focusing on gentle range-of-motion exercises that do not cause pain. Isometric exercises, where you contract the muscle without moving the joint, can also be beneficial in the early stages of recovery.

4. Managing Pain and Discomfort: To alleviate the discomfort you are feeling, consider the following strategies:
- Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the knee can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing relief from pain. Aim for 15-20 minutes of icing every 1-2 hours, especially after any activity.

- Elevation: Keeping your leg elevated above heart level can help reduce swelling. Use pillows to prop your leg up while resting.

- Compression: Wearing a compression bandage can help manage swelling and provide support to the knee.

5. Consulting Your Surgeon: Since you are experiencing significant discomfort and a sensation of "catching," it is crucial to consult your surgeon as soon as possible. While waiting for your follow-up appointment on February 17, monitor your symptoms closely. If the pain worsens or if you notice increased swelling, redness, or warmth around the incision site, seek medical attention sooner.

6. Long-Term Considerations: After your sutures are removed, your surgeon may provide further guidance on rehabilitation exercises. It is essential to follow their recommendations closely, as they will tailor your recovery plan based on the specifics of your surgery and your healing progress.
In summary, while some discomfort and tightness can be expected after knee arthroscopy, it is essential to manage your activities and symptoms carefully. Focus on gentle rehabilitation, utilize ice and elevation, and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure a smooth recovery process. Remember, patience is key in the healing journey, and gradual progress is often more beneficial than rushing back into strenuous activities.

Similar Q&A

Post-Operative Symptoms After Knee Arthroscopy: What to Expect

Hello, doctor. I recently visited a nearby orthopedic clinic due to a car accident. After a thorough examination by the orthopedic surgeon, it was found that my left knee makes an abnormal sound when bent, and I was advised to undergo arthroscopic surgery for a detailed internal ...

Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
It is normal to experience swelling and pain after arthroscopic surgery, which may be due to residual synovial swelling within the joint. It is important to allow the joint to rest, engage in light movement, and gradually return to normal activities.

Post-Operative Care for Knee Arthroscopy: Is Rehab Necessary?

Hello Dr. Chang, My mother underwent a left knee arthroscopy at the end of July this year and has recently received hyaluronic acid treatment. However, she has not been feeling well since the surgery (there is no redness, swelling, heat, or pain). I would like to know if this i...

Dr. Zhang Jiahao reply Orthopedics
Hello: The findings during knee arthroscopy are very important. Possible intraoperative findings include cartilage softening or damage, meniscal tears, or soft tissue proliferation, among others. Different intraoperative findings determine the surgical approach and outcomes. The ...

Understanding Knee Surgery for Osteoarthritis: Risks, Recovery, and Care

Hello, doctor. A friend of mine needs knee surgery due to osteomyelitis. Could you please explain the potential complications that may arise after the surgery? Additionally, what are the recommended post-operative care and dietary guidelines? How long should he rest before being ...

Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
Hello: The term "osteochondritis" alone does not provide enough information about your condition or the potential postoperative complications. It is recommended that you visit an orthopedic outpatient clinic in person to better understand your situation. Please consult ...

Understanding Knee Cartilage Issues: Risks and Recovery After Surgery

Hello Doctor: My mother is 53 years old and two years ago she accidentally slipped while mopping the floor and injured her right knee joint. After the incident, she did not receive any special care, which has led to her inability to stand for long periods, difficulty climbing sta...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Arthroscopic surgery is considered a low-risk procedure. It may require regional anesthesia during the operation, and typically there are no long-term side effects. If your mother's symptoms are confirmed to be related to bone spurs and fragmented bone, then the surgery may ...