Experts in Orthopedic Knee Surgery and Patient Care
Potential benefits of arthroscopic surgery when compared with traditional “open” surgery often include:
At Colorado Orthopedic Consultants, we understand that pain in the knee can make life and everyday activities difficult. If you think you may be suffering from a knee condition or injury, like an ACL injury or damaged cartilage; we invite you to consult with an expert knee doctor at Colorado Orthopedic Consultants by calling (303) 695-6060.
Arthroscopic knee surgery combined with an excellent physical therapy plan can help jump-start your return to the lifestyle and activities you enjoy.
Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure during which the internal structure of a joint is examined for diagnosis and treatment of problems inside the joint. In arthroscopic examination, a small incision is made in the patient’s skin through which pencil-sized instruments that have a small lens and lighting system (arthroscope) are passed. Arthroscope magnifies and illuminates the structures of the joint with the light that is transmitted through fiber optics. It is attached to a television camera and the interior of the joint is seen on the television monitor.
Leading the Way in Orthopedic Excellence
“The level of care I received from Dr. Faulkner was stupendous. Even with a 2nd ACL reconstruction, Dr. Faulkner’s skill had me back to training for the upcoming cycling season in amazing time. I was apprehensive about competing in the next season whatsoever, but within 6 months of surgery I was back on the podium in professional races, and by 8 months, back to competition at the largest races in the country, including contesting for a second collegiate cycling national championship title.Thank you for an incredible outcome and getting me back to doing what I love!”.
Cyrus Pearo / Bicycle Racer and Winner of the USA Cycling Collegiate Road National Championships
Arthroscopic Examinations
- Arthroscopic examination of joints is helpful in diagnosis and treatment of the following conditions
- Inflammation: Synovitis, the inflammation of the lining of the knee, shoulder, elbow, wrist, or ankle
- Acute or chronic injury: Injuries to the shoulder, knee and wrist joint such as cartilage tears, tendon tears, carpal tunnel syndrome
- Osteoarthritis: A type of arthritis caused by cartilage loss in a joint
- Removal of loose bodies of bone or cartilage that becomes logged within the joint
During arthroscopic surgery, either a general, spinal or local anesthesia will be given depending on the condition. A small incision of the size of a buttonhole is made through which the arthroscope is inserted. Other accessory incisions will be made through which specially designed instruments are inserted. After the procedure is completed arthroscope is removed and incisions are closed. You may be instructed about the incision care, activities to be avoided and exercises to be performed for faster recovery.
Some of the possible complications after arthroscopy include infection, phlebitis (clotting of blood in vein), excessive swelling, bleeding, blood vessel or nerve damage and instrument breakage.
Recovery
Colorado Orthopedic Consultants understands the importance of Physical and Occupational Therapy and the vital role they play during the rehabilitation process.
Physical and Occupational Therapists are rehabilitation professionals who evaluate and treat individuals of all ages who have medical or surgical problems or illness or injuries that limit their functional activities. Through exercise, manual therapy, mechanical devices, physical agents that may include heat, cold, electricity, soundwaves and other treatments we help our patients recover from their surgery and regain function.
