Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Before we learn about arthroscopy, we should learn how the knee works. The knee is a hinge joint and consists of three main bones, which include the tibia (shin bone), femur (thigh bone), and the patella (kneecap). The bending of the knee makes the patella slide onto the front of the femur, allowing the femur to roll to the top of the tibia.

For smooth and stable movement, several structures work together. Muscles and ligaments provide strength and stability, synovial fluid lubricates the joint to reduce friction, and cartilage cushions the contact points between the femur and tibia. The meniscus, a crescent-shaped pad of rigid cartilage positioned between the bone ends, acts as an extra cushion to absorb shock while enhancing stability. Any form of injury, tear, or gradual degeneration to these components can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

What Is Arthroscopic Knee Surgery ?

In arthroscopic knee surgery, surgeons can diagnose and treat knee issues through very small incisions, avoiding the need for large cuts. A slender device with a camera, called an arthroscope, is inserted into the joint to deliver detailed images to a monitor. These images help guide the procedure, and if treatment is required, specialized instruments are introduced through other small incisions to restore or repair the damaged tissue.

This method is considered safe, with a low rate of complications and a high success rate for most patients. One of its main advantages is the ability to carry out complex repairs without the need for open surgery, which results in smaller scars, less post-operative pain, quicker recovery, and shorter healing time compared with traditional techniques.

When Is Arthroscopic Surgery Recommended?

Arthroscopy is usually advised when non-surgical options, like medicines, physiotherapy, changes in daily habits, or joint injections, don’t ease symptoms such as pain, swelling, locking, catching, or instability. Problems often treated with this method include :

• Injuries involving the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or posterior cruciate ligament (PCL)
• Meniscus injuries
• Patella malalignment or instability
• Loose cartilage or bone fragments within the joint
• Certain fractures near the knee that require precise repair
• Synovitis, which is inflammation of the joint lining

How Arthroscopic Surgery Is Performed

The procedure is carried out in a series of steps :

• Anaesthesia – The patient is given local anaesthesia (numbing the knee only), regional anaesthesia (numbing from the waist down), or general anaesthesia (sleep throughout the surgery).
• Preparation and incisions – The surgeons identify the entry points and make an incision using two or more incision points.
• Joint expansion – To allow easy movement and clear visualization of the instruments and structures in a joint, sterile saline is gently pumped into the joint to provide space.
• Insertion of arthroscope – The arthroscope is introduced through one incision, and the internal structures are viewed in real time on a monitor.
• Diagnosis and treatment – Using fine instruments inserted through the other incisions, the surgeon trims, repairs, or reconstructs damaged tissues.
• Closure – The saline is removed, the incisions are closed with stitches or adhesive strips, and sterile dressings are applied.

Possible Risks and Complications

While arthroscopy is generally a safe procedure, certain issues can still occur. These can be infections developing either in the joint space or at the places of incisions, excessive bleeding, clot formation, or allergies towards the anaesthesia, or temporary stiffness and swelling.

Recovery After Arthroscopy

As a minimally invasive procedure, arthroscopy often takes less than an hour, and many patients return home the same day. Recovery time varies depending on the condition treated, the patient’s general health, and their dedication to rehabilitation. Post-surgery care usually involves :

• Applying ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort
• Keeping the leg elevated to improve circulation and decrease swelling
• Taking pain relief medication as prescribed
• Starting physical therapy gradually to regain movement, strength, and stability

Gentle range-of-motion exercises are typically introduced soon after surgery, followed by weight-bearing and strengthening activities under physiotherapist guidance.

Expected Outcomes

In most cases, arthroscopic knee surgery leads to significant pain relief, improved mobility, and better joint stability. Many patients return to normal activities within six to eight weeks, although those involved in high-impact sports may need longer rehabilitation. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, wearing supportive shoes, and avoiding repetitive high-stress movements can help maintain joint health and reduce the risk of future injuries.

Key Takeaways

Arthroscopic knee surgery is a safe, efficient, and precise way to treat a variety of knee conditions while minimizing disruption to surrounding tissues. It offers smaller scars, faster recovery, shorter hospital stays, and long-term improvement for many patients. With advanced equipment and skilled surgical expertise, arthroscopy plays an important role in modern orthopaedic care, helping people regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to daily activities sooner.