Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside the knee joint. During the procedure, an arthroscope (a small camera) is inserted into the knee, allowing the surgeon to view the joint on a video monitor and perform repairs through small incisions.

Knee arthroscopy is often used to diagnose and treat various knee problems, including:

• Torn meniscus
• Torn anterior or posterior cruciate ligaments (ACL/PCL)
• Damaged articular cartilage
• Loose fragments of bone or cartilage
• Inflamed synovial tissue
• Patellar (kneecap) misalignment
• Knee sepsis (infection)

Common Symptoms

• Persistent knee pain
• Swelling and stiffness
• Reduced range of motion
• Locking or catching of the knee
• Instability or giving way

Preoperative Evaluation

• Medical History and Physical Examination:
• Assessment of symptoms and knee function.
• Imaging Tests:
• X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to evaluate the extent of the knee problem.

Procedure

Preparation:

• The patient is given anesthesia (general, spinal, or local).
• The knee is cleaned and sterilized.

Incisions:

• Small incisions (portals) are made around the knee.

Insertion of Arthroscope:

• The arthroscope is inserted into the knee through one of the incisions.
• Sterile fluid is used to expand the knee joint for better visualization.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

• The surgeon examines the inside of the knee joint.
• Small surgical instruments are inserted through other incisions to repair or remove damaged tissues.

Completion:

• The arthroscope and instruments are removed.
• The incisions are closed with sutures or steri-strips.
• The knee is bandaged.

Recovery – Immediate Postoperative Care

Pain Management:

• Medications for pain relief.

Ice and Elevation:

• Apply ice packs and keep the knee elevated to reduce swelling.

Bandages and Dressings:

• Keep the surgical site clean and dry.

Rehabilitation

Rest and Activity Modification:

• Avoid weight-bearing activities initially.
• Use crutches if needed.

Physical Therapy:

• A structured rehabilitation program to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
• Exercises to improve knee stability and function.

Gradual Return to Activities:

• Gradual reintroduction of normal activities and sports as per the surgeon’s advice.

Risks & Complications

• Infection: Risk of infection at the surgical site.
• Bleeding: Minor bleeding or hematoma formation.
• Blood Clots: Risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
• Stiffness: Limited range of motion post-surgery.
• Nerve or Blood Vessel Injury: Rare but possible damage to surrounding structures.
• Persistent Pain or Swelling: Ongoing discomfort in some cases.

Benefits

• Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery compared to open surgery.
• Accurate Diagnosis: Direct visualization of the joint for precise diagnosis.
• Effective Treatment: Ability to treat various knee problems simultaneously.

FAQ’s

How long is the recovery time after knee arthroscopy?
Recovery time varies depending on the specific procedure and individual factors. Generally, patients can return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks, though full recovery may take several months for more extensive repairs.

Will I need physical therapy after knee arthroscopy?
Yes, physical therapy is often recommended to help restore knee function, strength, and flexibility.

Can I drive after knee arthroscopy?
Driving is typically not advised until you can perform an emergency stop without discomfort and are no longer taking pain medications that impair your ability to drive.

Are there activities I should avoid after knee arthroscopy?
Avoid high-impact activities, heavy lifting, and sports until your surgeon gives you clearance. Follow the rehabilitation plan provided by your healthcare team.

How effective is knee arthroscopy?
Knee arthroscopy is highly effective for diagnosing and treating many knee conditions. Success rates vary depending on the specific problem and the patient’s adherence to post-operative care and rehabilitation.