On this page· 3 sections
  1. 01Applications
  2. 02Advantages
  3. 03Procedure

Knee arthroscopy is a surgical technique in which the interior of the joint is visualized with a camera, allowing diagnosis and treatment to be performed simultaneously using a closed method. The knee is the joint where arthroscopy is most frequently applied.

Applications

  • Meniscus surgery: meniscus repair and partial meniscectomy
  • Ligament reconstruction: anterior and posterior cruciate ligament repair
  • Cartilage procedures: debridement, microfracture, osteochondral grafting
  • Synovial diseases: synovectomy, intra‑articular cleaning
  • Loose body removal and lavage in joint infection
  • Soft tissue balancing procedures for knee cap instability

Sagittal MR image: cartilage and meniscus structure indicated by arrow

Advantages

Because it is performed through 5 mm port incisions, muscle and skin tissue are preserved in a minimally invasive manner; postoperative pain is reduced, infection risk is lower, and return to daily activities is faster. The magnified intra‑articular view allows visualization of details that would not be discernible in open surgery.

Coronal MR image: evaluation of intra‑articular structures

Procedure

The surgery is usually performed under spinal or general anesthesia. For simple procedures, the patient is discharged walking on the same day. Recovery time depends on the procedure performed: after meniscectomy, return to daily activities takes 2–4 weeks; after cruciate ligament reconstruction, return to sport takes 6–9 months. The postoperative physical therapy program is the most important determinant of outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

In which conditions is knee arthroscopy performed?
Meniscus tears, anterior/posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, cartilage procedures, synovial debridement, removal of loose bodies within the joint, and joint infection lavage.
How long does knee arthroscopy take?
Depending on the procedure, it lasts between 30 minutes and 2 hours; patients are usually discharged the same day.
When can I walk after knee arthroscopy?
For simple procedures (e.g., meniscectomy) you can walk the same day. For ligament reconstruction or meniscus repair, a few weeks of crutch use may be needed.
Has arthroscopy completely replaced open surgery?
Yes for the vast majority of intra‑articular procedures. However, prosthetic replacement, major bone corrections (osteotomy), and some revisions still require open surgery.