Arthroscopy can be used for many conditions including removal or repair of torn
meniscal cartilage, reconstruction of torn ligaments including the anterior cruciate
ligament (ACL), removal of loose fragments of bone or cartilage, and removal of
inflamed synovial tissue. Through the use of smaller incision, a faster and less
painful recovery can be expected.
Arthroscopic surgery is done as an outpatient. Prior to surgery you will be asked
to see your primary care doctor for “medical clearance”. They may check blood tests,
EKG, and a chest x-ray in addition to other tests they find indicated.
Once surgery is scheduled, the hospital or surgery center will contact you ahead
of time to provide specific details about your procedure. Please make sure to ask
any questions you have and follow the instructions on when to arrive and especially
on when to stop eating or drinking prior to surgery.
On the day of surgery, the anesthesia staff will talk with you about anesthesia
options. You will be asleep for the procedure and often a regional nerve block is
recommended to numb the knee and leg for pain relief.
Once in the operating room, you will be positioned so that a clear view of the inside
of your knee can be obtained. A member of the surgical team will clean the skin
over the knee with an antiseptic solution and a sterile drape will cover your knee
and leg.
Through small incisions about the knee fluid flows through the arthroscope to keep
the view clear and control any bleeding. Images from the arthroscope are projected
on the video screen showing the inside of your knee and any damage.
Small instruments are placed through 1-3 separate incisions and can be used to shave,
cut, grasp, pass suture, and tie knots. Anchor are often used to hold stitches into
bone.
At the completion of surgery the incisions are closed with stitches and covered
them with a large, soft bandage.
Postoperatively you will stay in the recovery room for 1 to 2 hours before being
discharged home. Nurses will monitor your responsiveness and provide pain medication,
if needed. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least
the first night.
Recovery from knee arthroscopy depends on the procedure performed but takes several
weeks and a few months before full recovery.
Physical therapy will play a vital role after surgery in regaining strength and
motion.