Knee Arthroscopy

What is Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy, derived from the Greek words “Arthro” (joint) and “Scopy” (to look), is a surgical technique that enables the examination and treatment of knee joint issues. This procedure involves a small incision through which an arthroscope, a tiny camera, is inserted into the knee. The arthroscope projects images onto a screen, allowing the surgeon to view the joint’s interior and perform necessary treatments using miniature instruments.

Knee arthroscopy is typically conducted under anaesthesia and is considered a minimally invasive method compared to traditional open surgery.

Common Arthroscopic Knee Surgeries

Arthroscopic knee surgeries are diverse, addressing a range of knee problems. Common procedures include:

• Partial Meniscectomy
  This surgery focuses on the meniscus, a key structure in the knee that acts as a shock absorber between the thighbone and shinbone. In a partial meniscectomy, the surgeon removes only the damaged segment of the meniscus, preserving as much of the healthy tissue as possible. This procedure is often used to treat meniscus tears.
• Meniscus Repair
  Contrasting with partial removal, meniscus repair involves stitching the torn pieces of the meniscus together. This approach is taken when the tear is repairable and the surrounding tissue is healthy, aiming to maintain knee stability and function.
• Ligament Reconstruction
  This surgery is particularly common for repairing the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), a knee ligament that is often injured in sports. The procedure typically involves reconstructing the torn ligament using a graft from another part of the body or a donor.
• Lateral Release of the Patella
  This surgery addresses issues with the kneecap, particularly when it is misaligned or too tight. By releasing some of the tissues holding the patella, the knee surgeon aims to realign it within the knee joint, alleviating discomfort and improving mobility.
• Arthritic Joint Treatment
  Knee arthroscopy can also be effective in treating arthritis in the knee. Procedures may include cleaning the joint of inflamed tissue and debris, a process known as debridement. This can help reduce pain and improve joint function in arthritic knees.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

The recovery and rehabilitation process following knee arthroscopy can help ensure a successful outcome. Immediately ​after the surgery, patients are closely monitored. They may experience pain, discomfort, and in some cases, nausea. A tube or drain might be inserted near the operated site to remove excess fluids. Patients are typically required to stay in bed for a minimum of 6 hours after the surgery. On the day of discharge, our knee surgeon will examine the wound and provide instructions on medication intake.

The recovery and rehabilitation process also includes:

• Walking with Assistance: Patients can sit up and walk slowly, initially with assistance. They may use a front-wheel walker, crutches or other assistive devices as instructed.
• Physical Therapy: Engaging in a physical therapy program can often help enhance recovery, restore motion, and strengthen the muscles. Daily exercises can also be performed to regain strength and improve knee mobility.
• Pain Management: Patients can take prescribed medications to manage pain and swelling.
• Protecting the Wound: Individuals should keep the wound clean and dry. Using a waterproof protector during showers can help with this.

Most patients can return to desk work and light activities within a few days, with a gradual increase in activities over the following weeks. Recovery times can vary based on individual circumstances and the specific procedures performed​​​​​​.

Benefits of Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy offers several benefits over traditional open knee surgery, primarily due to its minimally invasive nature.

• Smaller Incisions
  Arthroscopy requires only small incisions, typically about one centimetre in size, which minimises tissue damage.
• Reduced Healing Time
  Due to the smaller incisions and less invasive approach, the healing process is generally faster compared to open surgery.
• Quicker Recovery
  Patients often experience a more rapid recovery, enabling them to return to daily activities and work sooner. Many arthroscopic surgeries are also performed as outpatient procedures, meaning patients can return home on the same day of the surgery.
• Less Scarring
  Smaller incisions lead to less scarring, both internally and externally.
• Decreased Joint Stiffness and Pain
  Arthroscopy is less traumatic to the muscles, ligaments, and tissues surrounding the knee, resulting in less postoperative stiffness and pain.
• Improved Diagnostic Accuracy
  The arthroscope provides a clear view of the knee’s interior, allowing surgeons to make more accurate diagnoses and perform precise surgical interventions.