Knee Arthroscopy

What is knee arthroscopy?

• It’s a minimally invasive procedure where your doctor makes 2–3 small cuts around the knee and inserts a tiny camera (arthroscope) to see inside. Special instruments are used to repair torn ligaments, meniscus, or cartilage. Unlike open surgery, the cuts are small and recovery is quicker.

Who needs knee arthroscopy?

• Patients with ligament injuries (like ACL tears), meniscus tears, loose fragments, or early cartilage problems benefit most. It is not helpful for very advanced arthritis.

How is it different from knee replacement?

• Arthroscopy repairs the natural joint. Replacement changes the joint completely with an artificial one.

Is it painful?

• Most patients report mild discomfort only. Post-surgery pain is much less compared to open procedures.

How long is recovery?

• You can usually walk the same day or next day with support. Most return to daily work in 1–2 weeks, and sports in 6-7 months depending on the injury treated.

Will I need physiotherapy?

• Yes, it is very important for strengthening muscles and restoring movement.

Can it be done as day-care surgery?

• Yes, many patients go home the same day.

Are there risks?

• Rarely, there may be infection, swelling, or stiffness, but serious problems are uncommon.

Does it cure arthritis?

• No, it can give temporary relief in early arthritis but not in severe arthritis.

Will there be big scars?

• No, only 2–3 tiny marks, usually less than 1 cm.