Knee Arthroscopy: is a common procedure that orthopaedic surgeons perform to examine and treat the internal structures of the knee joint. An arthroscope is a fine fibre-optic telescope inserted into the knee under a general anaethetic and the pictures are viewed on a television monitor screen. Fine instruments are introduced into the joint through a separate small incision, to do operative procedures inside the knee joint. Arthroscopy is now a routine procedure, often done as a day procedure, and usually causing minimal discomfort, and facilitating a rapid recovery and return to normal activity.

Operations that may be done using the arthroscope include operations for cartilage(meniscus) tears, Osteoarthritis with separated articular cartilage flaps, Patella (knee cap) problems, Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, synovectomy, cartilage grafting, and tretament of many minor mechanical and inflammatory joint conditions.

Arthroscopy is done in a hospital operating room, usually under a general anaesthetic. The procedure may take 45-60 minutes. After the operation, your knee is bandaged, and when you waken from the anaesthetic, feel comfortable, and can  walk with the assistance of crutches, you may be discharged home. The support bandage can be reduced the following day to shower. Crutches are not ususally necessary for more than one or two days, but you will be advised about this by your surgeon. There will be waterproof dressings over the stitches in your incisions, and these are removed when you return for a review appointment 10 days after your procedure.  You may be able to return to light activity, driving  and work in  5 days.

Major complications are few after arthroscopy. Longer term problems will depend on the actual pathology found in your knee, and the possibility of appropriate arthroscopic treatment. The main early concern is bleeding into the knee joint, and this is very painful and will require needle drainage. Severe pain the night after an arthroscopy should be reported promptly to the hospital or your doctor, so the correct treatment can be administered.