Swelling above Knee after Meniscectomy

Having knee surgery is a big deal. No matter whether your knee surgery was open or arthroscopic, minor or major, you are still having the joint operated on and the possibilities for problems are huge. Informing yourself to the best of your ability about potential problems can help you identify them if they happen to you.

• Knee problems are a pain

Types

• There are two types of meniscectomy--arthroscopic and open. During arthroscopic surgery, small incisions are made where tools and a camera can be inserted and the operation performed through these incision. In open surgery, a larger incision is made and the joint exposed in order for the surgeon to have more room to work.

Benefits

• When the meniscus is torn beyond repair, or there has been trauma or some other factor, the entire meniscus is removed rather than just the damaged portion replaced. This speeds up rehabilitation and also prevents reinjury to the meniscus.

Function

• The function of the meniscus is to create a smooth surface over which the knee joint can slide and work efficiently. When the meniscus is torn or has other damage, it causes the knee joint to "catch," causing more damage. When there is extensive meniscus damage, or other problems, the best option maybe to remove it entirely.

Swelling

• Swelling is a very common occurrence after any knee surgery, and unless it becomes extreme, it is not something to become overly concerned about. In some cases, there may be permanent swelling, usually mild, in the knee joint after an operation. Check with your doctor if you have concerns.

Warning

• If the swelling above your knee should be accompanied by redness around the incision, a foul smelling drainage from the incisions, fever, chills, or vomiting, you need to seek medical attention immediately. Infection is one of the worst complications of any surgery, and it is better to be safe than sorry.