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Monday, August 17, 2009

Using Arthroscopy to Diagnose & Treat Knee Problems

By Dr. Richard Edelson

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 is a thin, smooth membrane that coats the interior surfaces of the knee. In a healthy knee, the synovial membrane produces a lubricant that allows the knee to function comfortably and smoothly.

The three bones that make up the largest joint in the body are the shin bone (tibia), thigh bone (femur) and knee cap (patella). The entire structure is held together by ligaments that run between the tibia and femur. The patella moves along a groove in the end of the femur. The strong muscle of the thigh provides support and stability.

Click here for more on knee arthroscopy .

Problems With the Knees

Properly functioning knees operate smoothly; however, most knees wear out eventually. The knee is in almost constant use in most of the activities of daily living. Over time sports, injuries, weakening tissues, work, aging and arthritis begin to wear the knee down. When this happens, the result is loss of function along with a fair measure of pain.

This is where arthroscopy comes in handy to diagnose and treat:

When the articular cartilage is softened and/or the surfaces of the joints are damaged, it is called chondromalacia.

Crystalline arthropathy: Gouty arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflamed synovial membranes.

Patellar instability and misalignment.

Arthroscopy can locate these problems.

Damage to meniscal cartilage can be visualized.

Loose and fragmented cartilage and bone.

The posterior and anterior cruciate ligaments can become torn.

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. - 17269

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