Orthopedic Knee Evaluation: What is Involved?

Initially, you will see your family doctor about your knee problems. He or she will probably give you a referral to an orthopedic surgeon. When you see the orthopedic surgeon, three steps will be taken. You will give your medical history. You will receive a physical examination. Some tests will be ordered.

Your orthopedic surgeon will ask you about both your specific knee problems and your general health when conducting your medical history.

He or she will focus mostly on your knees and your legs during the physical examination. It will be necessary to determine the stability and strength of your knee as well as the extent of your ROM (range of motion). Also, the orthopedic surgeon will want to check your legs alignment.

Once these steps are done, the orthopedic surgeon will send you for testing. You are likely to have some blood testing done. This will help detect the presence of arthritis. You will probably also have some x-rays as well as an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). It is necessary to get both kinds of images because they provide different types of information. X-rays provide information about bones. The MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) provides information about soft tissues.

Once all of your test results have come back, you will meet with the orthopedic surgeon to discuss the results and decide on a course of action. Your options will probably include medication, physical therapy, and a variety of surgical options. Arthroscopy will, no doubt, be explained to you at this time.

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Your orthopedic surgeon will talk to you about the risks involved in arthroscopy - both those that may be encountered during the surgery and afterwards.

Your orthopedic surgeon will be more likely to recommend arthroscopy for you if you have experienced any of the following: Problems with the performance of your knee, such as giving way or catching. Persistent swelling and pain. Exhaustion of options, such as knee braces, medications, and physical therapy. Or if you just generally dont feel safe performing your ADL (activities of daily living) because of an unreliable knee, you may be a good candidate for arthroscopy.

Indeed, it is the answer to a lot of knee problems in a lot of patients. It is usually used on people in the broad range of twenty to sixty years old, but it has been used on very young children and very old seniors with tremendous success as well.

Preparing Yourself for Arthroscopy

When you are ready to go ahead with your procedure, your orthopedic surgeon will ask that your M.D. perform a complete physical examination. This precautionary measure will catch any physical condition you may have that might interfere with your procedure.

Your doctor may do more tests at the request of the orthopedic surgeon. Sometimes a cardiogram is done. Sometimes more blood work is called for. In general, anything that will clarify your general condition so that your treatment can be exactly right for you, will be done.

During all of this testing and examination, dont neglect to inform your doctor and your orthopedic surgeon of any supplements or medications you might be taking. They will tell you if you need to discontinue anything before your surgery.