Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery used to find and treat many knee problems. Instead of making one large cut, the surgeon makes two or three very small openings around the knee. Through one opening, they place a tiny camera called an arthroscope. This camera sends clear video to a monitor, which helps the surgeon see inside the joint and make precise repairs with small tools.

How It Works

Fluid is added: A sterile saline solution is gently pumped into the knee. This opens up the joint space, clears away cloudy fluid, and gives the surgeon a better view.

The camera is placed: The arthroscope goes through one small opening. The surgeon watches the monitor to check the cartilage, ligaments, and meniscus for damage.

The repair is done: If a problem is found, the surgeon uses tiny tools through the other openings to trim, smooth, or stitch damaged tissue.

Common Problems Treated

Knee arthroscopy is often used to treat several joint issues, including:

  • Meniscus tears: The meniscus helps cushion the knee. A surgeon may trim away damaged tissue or repair a clean tear with stitches.
  • Rough or loose cartilage: Damaged cartilage may be smoothed down if it is causing pain, catching, or clicking.
  • Loose bodies: Small pieces of bone or cartilage that float in the joint can be removed.
  • Inflamed joint lining: In some cases, the swollen lining of the knee joint is removed to help reduce symptoms.

Why It May Be Chosen

Same-day procedure: It often takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and most people go home the same day.

Less tissue damage: Since the larger muscles and tendons are not cut open, there is usually less pain and swelling after surgery.

Quicker healing: Small openings heal faster than a large incision, which can lower the risk of infection and help you return to normal activities sooner.

Recovery and What to Expect

Weight-bearing: After a simple trimming procedure, many people can put weight on the leg right away and may only need crutches or a cane for a short time. If the meniscus is repaired, you may need a brace and limited weight-bearing for a longer period of time. Your surgeon will provide more details.

Physical therapy: Gentle exercises often begin soon after surgery to improve movement and build strength in the thigh muscles.

Return to activity: Many people can go back to desk work or driving within 1 to 2 weeks. More demanding activities like running, sports, or heavy labor may take 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the procedure.