Arthroscopy knee

Overview

Knee arthroscopy is a type of keyhole surgery. The surgeon makes small cuts around your knee and uses a tiny camera (arthroscope) to look inside the joint. They can also use small tools to repair damage, like torn cartilage or ligaments.

Yes, knee arthroscopy is a very common surgery performed around the world for various knee problems.

It can affect anyone, but it is often done for people with sports injuries, arthritis, or age-related wear and tear in the knee.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Knee pain that does not improve with rest or physiotherapy
• Swelling in the knee that comes and goes
• A feeling that your knee is catching, locking, or giving way

Symptoms in children

• Knee pain after an injury that does not get better
• Trouble bending or straightening the leg fully

Symptoms in older adults

• Persistent knee pain when walking or climbing stairs
• Swelling that limits daily activities

Causes

Main causes

• Torn meniscus (the cartilage that cushions the knee)
• Ligament injuries (like anterior cruciate ligament or ACL tear)
• Loose fragments of bone or cartilage inside the knee joint
• Arthritis that causes damaged surfaces or bone spurs

Risk factors

• Playing sports that involve twisting or jumping (basketball, soccer, skiing)
• Being overweight or obese, which puts extra stress on the knee
• Repetitive squatting or kneeling at work
• Previous knee injury or surgery

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you cannot put any weight on your knee after an injury
• If your knee looks deformed or dislocated

Book a routine appointment if:

• If knee pain lasts for more than a few weeks despite rest and ice
• If your knee locks or catches regularly, making it hard to walk

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, then examine your knee. They may order imaging tests to see inside the joint.

Tests that may be done

• X-ray to check for bone damage or arthritis
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to see soft tissues like cartilage, ligaments, and tendons
• Sometimes an ultrasound or CT scan

What to expect at your appointment

If these tests show a problem that might be fixed with arthroscopy, your doctor will explain the procedure, risks, and recovery. You will have a chance to ask questions before deciding.

Treatment

Knee arthroscopy is both a way to diagnose and treat knee problems. During the procedure, the surgeon makes small cuts (about 1 cm each) and inserts a camera and small tools.

Self-care at home

• Rest your knee and avoid putting weight on it as instructed by your surgeon
• Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling
• Elevate your leg on a pillow when sitting or lying down
• Follow your doctor's advice on when to start gentle movement and physiotherapy

Medical treatments

After surgery, you may be given medicines to help with pain and swelling. Your doctor might recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe something stronger for a short time. Physical therapy (exercises to strengthen the knee) is often a key part of recovery.

When is surgery considered?

Knee arthroscopy IS a surgery. It is typically recommended when other treatments like rest, physiotherapy, and injections have not worked, or when there is a specific injury (like a torn meniscus) that can be fixed with the camera.

Living with this condition

For the first few days after surgery, you will need to rest and keep your leg elevated. You may need crutches. Most people can return to light daily activities within a week, but full recovery from sports or heavy lifting may take months.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid high-impact activities like running or jumping until your doctor says it's safe
• Wear supportive shoes and avoid slippery surfaces
• If you are overweight, losing weight can reduce stress on your knee

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein and vitamins to help healing. Low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling can help strengthen your knee without hurting it. Always check with your physiotherapist or doctor before starting new exercises.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Recovering from knee surgery can be frustrating, especially if you are used to being active. It is normal to feel down or anxious. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional if these feelings last longer than a few weeks.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent knee injuries, but you can lower your risk. Strengthening the muscles around your knee, warming up before exercise, and using proper technique can help.

Vaccines

Not applicable to knee arthroscopy.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for knee problems that would lead to arthroscopy. See a doctor if you have ongoing knee symptoms.

Complications

If left untreated

• Ongoing pain and swelling that limits activities
• Worsening of the underlying problem, such as a larger tear in the meniscus
• Development of arthritis earlier than expected

Long-term outlook

For most people, knee arthroscopy is a safe and effective way to improve knee function and reduce pain. Recovery takes patience, but many people return to their normal activities within a few months. Your outlook depends on the specific problem, your overall health, and how well you follow your recovery plan.

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