Arthroscopic Knee Surgery Specialist

What is arthroscopic knee surgery?

Arthroscopic knee surgery is a minimally-invasive approach to knee surgery that uses several (usually three) small incisions near the knee joint to access the joint, assess its condition and perform procedures. The technique uses an instrument called an arthroscope, a flexible scope with a camera on one end. The camera is used to view the inside of the knee and send pictures to a monitor so the surgeon can see the structures of the knee joint without needing to make a large incision. Arthroscopy can be used to evaluate a joint to determine what type of treatment is necessary or to perform surgical procedures using instruments designed to be used through small incisions.

How is arthroscopic surgery performed on the knee?

Arthroscopic knee surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia or sedation. After the knee is carefully cleansed, incisions will be made at precise locations determined by x-rays or other diagnostic imaging prior to the procedure. A fluid will be injected into the joint to gently separate the structures of the joint for better viewing. The arthroscope will be advanced through one of the incisions so the surgeon can see the joint. Remaining incisions will be used to insert surgical instruments. Once the procedure is complete, a bandage or sutures will be used to close the incisions.

What conditions can arthroscopy be used to treat?

Today's arthroscopic techniques can be used to successfully treat an array of knee injuries and conditions, including:

• ligament and tendon repair

• removal of bone spurs and bone and cartilage fragments

• meniscal repair

• repair of damaged cartilage

• knee replacement surgery

Although arthroscopy can be used in many patients, it's not always ideal. Some patients will need to have traditional “open” surgery to provide greater access to the knee area, especially when damage is extensive or surgery is complex.