Knee Arthroscopy

Knee Arthroscopy

A knee arthroscopy is a common procedure that Orthopaedic Surgeons use to examine and treat the inside of the knee joint.

Incisions are generally smaller in arthroscopic surgery and this may reduce problems that can occur in the post-operative period.

Usually this is performed under a general anaesthetic but this can vary depending on the patient.

Generally during this procedure an arthroscope is inserted through an incision on the outer side of the knee joint.  Small operating instruments are inserted through one or two incisions on this inner side of the knee.

The Surgeon manipulates these instruments while watching a monitor. At this time diagnosis, repair, removal of damaged tissue or reconstruction of damaged tissue can occur.

Baker’s cysts can also be caused to reduce or disappear after the knee has been repaired.

Knee arthroscopy is considered a safe procedure however there is always risks involved in any procedure.  Possible complications can be infection, persistent bleeding, blood clot, injury to blood vessels, synovial fistula, risks to anaesthetic.