Loss of motion after surgery or injury can occur due to scar tissue formation. Scar tissue will stretch out when forced, but it likes to contract and tighten back up afterward. There is a limited window of opportunity after surgery or injury that is best to stretch and break up scar tissue. If it is not done during that window it can be very difficult to regain normal motion. When sufficient time has passed since the surgery or injury and motion is not improving despite proper conservative means, arthroscopic arthrofibrosis (joint stiffness and scarring) release is indicated.
Dr. Chudik performs the surgery with the assistance of an arthroscope (small camera that allows you look inside the knee through small incisions). Dr. Chudik uses special arthroscopic instruments to remove and release the scar tissue causing the loss of motion. Then, while you are still asleep, he moves the knee back and forth to ensure full motion is possible.
You may return to activities when there is no pain and when full knee range of motion, muscle strength and endurance, and functional use has been restored.
Indications for Surgery
Scar tissue after surgery or injury can cause stiffness and loss of joint motion. Scar tissue will stretch out when forced, but it tends to contract and tighten back up afterward. There is a limited window of opportunity after surgery or injury that is best to stretch and break up scar tissue. If it is not done during that window of opportunity, it can be very difficult to regain normal motion.
When sufficient time has passed since the surgery or injury and motion is not improving despite proper conservative means, arthroscopic arthrofibrosis (joint stiffness and scarring) release is indicated.
Contraindications to Surgery
- Infection of the knee
- Inability or unwillingness to complete an appropriate postoperative rehabilitation program
Potential Surgical Risks and Complications
- Infection
- Persistent knee stiffness (loss of knee motion), worse than before if not compliant with post-operative program
Hospitalization and Anesthesia
- Outpatient surgery (you go home the same day)
- General anesthesia and local anesthetic
General Surgical Technique
Dr. Chudik performs the surgery with the assistance of an arthroscope (small camera that llows you look inside the knee through small incisions). Dr. Chudik uses special arthroscopi struments to remove and release the scar tissue causing the loss of motion. Then, while yo are still asleep, he moves your knee back and forth to ensure full motion is possible.
Post-Operative Course
- Keep the wound clean and dry for the three days following arthroscopic surgery, then you may shower but may not submerge the wounds for three weeks
- You will use crutches for comfort only