Knee Arthroscopy
Interested in learning more about how knee arthroscopy can help you? Read on or contact our clinic
What is Knee Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to visualize, diagnose, and treat joint issues through a small incision. It involves inserting a tiny camera (arthroscope) into the knee, projecting detailed images of the joint onto a screen. This allows for both diagnosis and treatment of various knee conditions without the need for open surgery. The procedure is typically done under regional anesthesia, providing comfort with minimal recovery time.
Common Conditions Treated with Knee Arthroscopy
Click on each title to learn more:
ACL Tear
Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction involves repairing or replacing the anterior cruciate ligament, which is crucial for knee stability, especially in athletes.
PCL Tear
Posterior cruciate ligament tears, though less common than ACL tears, can also be addressed arthroscopically to restore knee function.
Meniscus Tears
The meniscus is a cushion of cartilage in the knee. Arthroscopy repairs or removes the damaged part of the meniscus, relieving pain and improving mobility.
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injury
Arthroscopy can help assess and treat injuries to the MCL, often caused by direct impact to the outer knee. Click to read more on MCL.
Patella or Quadriceps Tendon Ruptures
These serious injuries, often due to sudden forceful movements, can be repaired using arthroscopy to restore normal knee function.
Runner's Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)
Arthroscopy is used to diagnose and treat cartilage damage or inflammation under the kneecap that causes chronic knee pain in runners.
Patella Dislocation
When the kneecap slips out of place, arthroscopy can help realign the patella and repair any associated soft tissue damage.
Bursitis
Inflammation of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction in the joint) can be relieved using arthroscopy, especially if conservative treatments have failed.
Chondromalacia Patella
Softening or damage of the cartilage under the kneecap can be addressed with arthroscopy to smooth the cartilage and reduce pain.
Osteochondritis Dissecans
This condition, where a fragment of bone and cartilage becomes loose in the joint, can be treated arthroscopically to remove or reattach the fragment.
How is Knee Arthroscopy Performed?
1. Anesthesia & Preparation
Patient receives regional anesthesia (spinal or epidural) numbing the lower body. Knee is cleaned & sterilized to prevent infection.
2. Camera Insertion
A small incision is made for the arthroscope, which sends images to a monitor for a thorough examination of the knee joint.
3. Treatment
If a problem is detected, tiny surgical instruments are inserted through additional small incisions to repair or remove damaged tissues.
4. Closure
The small incisions are carefully stitched closed, and the patient is typically discharged on the same day, allowing for recovery at home.
Recovery After Knee Arthroscopy
Immediate Mobility
Most patients can start walking with crutches shortly after the procedure.
Swelling and Pain Management
Swelling is common but can be managed with ice packs and elevation. Pain medications and antibiotics may be prescribed.
Stitch Removal
Stitches are typically removed 10-15 days after surgery.
Full Recovery
Patients can generally resume normal activities within 4-6 weeks, depending on the procedure’s complexity. Physical therapy is often recommended to restore strength and mobility.
Why Choose Knee Arthroscopy?
Knee arthroscopy offers several benefits over traditional open surgeries
Minimally Invasive
Smaller incisions lead to less pain, reduced scarring, and faster healing.
Quick Recovery
Most patients can return to their daily routines within a few weeks.
Comprehensive Treatment
Effective for a wide range of conditions, from ligament tears to cartilage damage.
Contact us today to book an appointment.
If you are experiencing knee pain or have been diagnosed with a knee condition, we can provide expert arthroscopic treatment to help you get back on your feet