Knee Arthroscopy: What Patients Should Know Before Surgery

Knee pain can significantly impact your life. Simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, or bending can become painful challenges. For many patients, persistent knee issues lead doctors to recommend knee arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that allows surgeons to diagnose and treat various knee problems.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything patients should know before undergoing knee arthroscopy: what it involves, why it’s done, preparation, recovery, and expected outcomes.

What is Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows orthopaedic surgeons to look inside your knee joint using a small camera called an arthroscope. Through tiny incisions, surgeons can repair damaged tissues, remove debris, or smooth cartilage, all while avoiding large, painful incisions.

Unlike traditional open surgery, knee arthroscopy usually results in:

• Less pain after surgery
• Smaller scars
• Faster recovery times
• Lower risk of complications

Statistic: According to the Australian Orthopaedic Association, over 60,000 knee arthroscopies are performed in Australia each year, making it one of the most common orthopaedic procedures.

Why Knee Arthroscopy Is Performed

Knee arthroscopy is recommended for patients with ongoing knee pain, swelling, stiffness, or mechanical problems that haven’t improved with conservative treatments like physiotherapy or medication.

Common indications include:

• Meniscus tears: Damage to the cartilage that cushions the knee joint
• Ligament injuries: Partial tears or instability in ligaments
• Loose bodies: Small fragments of bone or cartilage causing pain or locking
• Cartilage damage: Wear or injury that may cause arthritis
• Synovial issues: Inflammation of the lining of the knee joint

Minimally invasive knee surgery can relieve pain, improve mobility, and prevent further damage if done early and appropriately.

Signs That You May Need Knee Arthroscopy

Patients often notice:

• Persistent knee pain, especially during activity
• Swelling or stiffness in the knee
• Locking or catching sensations
• Instability or “giving way” of the knee
• Difficulty performing daily activities like walking or bending

If these symptoms continue for several weeks or months despite conservative treatment, consulting a specialist is essential.

How Knee Problems Are Diagnosed

Before recommending surgery, orthopaedic surgeons perform a thorough assessment.

Physical Examination

• Checks the range of motion
• Evaluates joint stability
• Observes gait and alignment

Imaging

• X-rays: Identify bone deformities or arthritis
• MRI: Detects meniscus tears, ligament injuries, and cartilage damage
• CT scan: Provides detailed images for complex cases

Accurate diagnosis ensures that knee arthroscopy is the most appropriate treatment.

Knee Arthroscopy Procedure: What to Expect

Knee arthroscopy is typically performed under general or regional anesthesia. The procedure usually lasts 30–90 minutes, depending on the complexity.

Step 1: Preparation

• Patients may need to stop certain medications before surgery
• Pre-operative exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the knee

Step 2: Small Incisions

• Surgeons make two or three small incisions around the knee
• The arthroscope and surgical instruments are inserted through these portals

Step 3: Treatment

Depending on the condition, the surgeon may:

• Trim or repair a torn meniscus
• Remove loose bodies
• Smooth damaged cartilage
• Repair ligament injuries

Step 4: Closure

• Incisions are closed with stitches or steri-strips
• A sterile dressing is applied, and patients are moved to recovery

Most patients go home the same day, although some may require an overnight stay for observation.

Advantages of Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy has several advantages over traditional open surgery:

• Minimally invasive: Smaller incisions mean less pain and scarring
• Faster recovery: Many patients resume daily activities within a few weeks
• Accurate diagnosis and treatment: Allows surgeons to directly see and treat problems
• Reduced risk of complications: Compared to open surgery

Fact: Studies indicate that over 85% of patients report improved knee function after arthroscopic treatment for meniscus or cartilage injuries.

Preparation for Knee Arthroscopy

Proper preparation can improve outcomes and recovery.

Pre-Surgery Tips

• Complete any recommended pre-operative tests
• Strengthen quadriceps and hamstrings through guided exercises
• Arrange support at home for the first few days
• Discuss medications, allergies, or chronic conditions with your surgeon

Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

• What is the exact goal of my knee arthroscopy?
• What are the risks and benefits?
• How long will recovery take?
• Will I need physiotherapy afterward?

Recovery Timeline

Recovery after knee arthroscopy varies depending on the procedure performed and the patient’s overall health.

First 1–2 Weeks

• Pain and swelling are common; use ice and pain medication as prescribed
• Walking with crutches may be necessary
• Avoid high-impact activity

Weeks 3–6

• Gradually increase activity
• Begin physical therapy to restore range of motion and strength
• Light activities such as walking and cycling may be resumed

Months 2–3

• Continue strengthening exercises
• Many patients return to work, depending on activity level
• Low-impact sports may resume

Months 3–6

• Full return to sports and high-impact activities, if cleared by the surgeon
• Long-term exercises maintain knee strength and flexibility

Statistic: Research shows that patients who follow structured rehabilitation are 50–70% more likely to achieve full functional recovery compared to those who skip physiotherapy.

Risks and Complications

Knee arthroscopy is generally safe, but potential risks include:

• Infection (rare, less than 1%)
• Blood clots
• Stiffness or reduced motion
• Persistent pain
• Rare nerve or blood vessel injury

Your surgeon will discuss these risks and steps to minimize them before the procedure.

Who Should Consider Knee Arthroscopy?

Ideal candidates:

• Adults with meniscus tears or cartilage damage
• Patients whose symptoms persist despite physiotherapy and medication
• Those without severe osteoarthritis (for whom knee replacement may be better)

Knee arthroscopy is not always recommended for advanced arthritis or major ligament reconstruction.

Tips for a Successful Recovery

• Follow your physiotherapy plan: Consistent exercises strengthen muscles and support healing
• Avoid rushing activities: Gradually return to sports or heavy work
• Monitor swelling and pain: Persistent symptoms may indicate complications
• Maintain a healthy weight: Reduces stress on the knee during recovery

Real Patient Outcomes

Patients often report significant improvement in pain and mobility after knee arthroscopy.

• Over 80% of patients experience reduced pain after meniscus repair
• Most regained the ability to perform daily activities without limitations
• Many athletes return to sport after structured rehabilitation

These outcomes highlight the effectiveness of minimally invasive knee surgery for properly selected patients.

Choosing the Right Surgeon

The success of knee arthroscopy depends heavily on the surgeon’s expertise. Look for:

• Experience with sports-related and degenerative knee injuries
• Use of modern arthroscopic techniques
• Strong rehabilitation support team

For patients in Western Australia, an experienced orthopaedic surgeon perth can provide personalised care and ensure the best possible outcomes for knee health.

Preventing Knee Injuries

While not all knee problems can be avoided, you can reduce risk through:

• Strengthening exercises for quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles
• Balance and agility training
• Proper warm-ups before sports or high-impact activity
• Gradual progression in training intensity

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a knee arthroscopy take?

Typically 30–90 minutes, depending on the procedure.

Is it painful?

Discomfort is usually mild and managed with medications. Pain is often less than that of traditional open surgery.

When can I walk or drive?

Most patients walk with crutches within a few days and resume driving in 2–4 weeks, depending on recovery.

Will I need another surgery?

Most patients do not, but follow-up procedures may be needed if symptoms persist.

Conclusion

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that helps relieve pain, repair structural issues, and restore mobility. With proper diagnosis, skilled surgical care, and structured rehabilitation, patients can return to daily activities and sports. Choosing an experienced surgeon ensures optimal outcomes and long-term knee health.