Knee Arthroscopy

What it is

Knee arthroscopy is a keyhole procedure in which a small camera (arthroscope) and fine instruments are inserted through two or three small incisions around the knee, allowing the inside of the joint to be examined directly and, where needed, treated in the same sitting.

Who it's for

It's most often used for meniscal (cartilage) tears, loose fragments of cartilage or bone, and some cases of localised cartilage damage, particularly where symptoms such as locking, catching or persistent swelling haven't settled with physiotherapy and other conservative treatment. It's less commonly recommended for general osteoarthritic wear, where injections or joint replacement tend to be more appropriate.

The procedure

Performed under general or spinal anaesthetic, typically as a day case. Common treatments carried out during arthroscopy include trimming or repairing a torn meniscus, removing loose fragments, and smoothing damaged cartilage (chondroplasty). Most patients go home the same day.

Recovery

• First few days: some swelling and discomfort is normal; ice, elevation and simple pain relief usually manage this well.
• Walking: most patients can weight-bear and walk with support on the same day, though this depends on exactly what was done during surgery.
• Return to desk-based work: often within a week or two.
• Return to sport or manual work: typically six to twelve weeks, guided by physiotherapy and the specific procedure performed.

Risks & considerations

Arthroscopy is generally low-risk compared with joint replacement, but as with any surgery carries a small risk of infection, blood clots, stiffness or persisting symptoms if underlying arthritic wear (rather than a discrete tear) is the main driver of pain. This is assessed carefully with imaging before surgery is recommended.