Knee Arthroscopy

What is Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat issues inside the knee joint. It involves inserting a small camera (arthroscope) through a tiny incision to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems within the joint.

Conditions Treated with Arthroscopy

Torn meniscus
Damaged articular cartilage
ACL or PCL tears
Inflammation (synovitis)
Loose bone or cartilage fragments
Misaligned kneecap
Baker’s cyst

Indications for Surgery

Persistent knee pain
Swelling and stiffness
Limited range of motion
Mechanical symptoms (locking, catching)

Diagnosis Before Surgery

Physical examination
X-rays
MRI scan
Blood and urine tests

Procedure

Performed under spinal or general anesthesia
Small incisions made around the knee
Arthroscope inserted through one incision
Surgical instruments inserted through other incisions
Surgeon views real-time images on a monitor
Repairs performed as needed (e.g., trimming meniscus, cartilage smoothing)

Duration: 30–90 minutes

Advantages

Minimally invasive
Shorter recovery time
Less pain and bleeding
Smaller scars
Early return to activities

Postoperative Care

Discharge same day or after one night
Pain managed with medications
Icing and leg elevation recommended
Weight-bearing allowed gradually
Physical therapy for rehabilitation
Stitches removed in 1–2 weeks

Recovery Timeline

Return to desk job: ~1 week
Return to full activity: 4–6 weeks
Athletes: 2–3 months (depending on injury)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is knee arthroscopy painful?
A: Mild discomfort post-surgery; managed with medication.

Q: Can I walk immediately after surgery?
A: Yes, with support. Crutches may be needed temporarily.

Q: Will I need physical therapy?
A: Yes, to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility.

Q: Is it a permanent solution?
A: Depends on the condition being treated; often effective for repairable issues.

Q: When can I return to sports?
A: Typically after 2–3 months, once full recovery is achieved.

Q: Are there risks?
A: Rare but include infection, blood clots, or joint stiffness.

Q: What if symptoms persist after surgery?
A: Follow up with the surgeon; advanced imaging or revision surgery may be needed.