Knee arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that allows doctors to perform procedures on the knee joint through very small incisions (cuts or “portals”) around the knee. During knee arthroscopy, your surgeon inserts a small camera, called an arthroscope, into your knee joint. The camera displays live pictures on a video monitor, and your surgeon uses these images to maneuver surgical instruments inside your knee joint.
 

Because the arthroscope and other surgical instruments are small in diameter, your surgeon can often use much smaller incisions, compared to larger incisions required for standard, “open” surgery. Arthroscopic knee procedures can therefore result in less pain for patients, and possibly shorten recovery times (compared to “open” knee procedures). Your surgeon will discuss if arthroscopic surgery or open surgery is most appropriate for your condition during the consultation.
 

Arthroscopy is used to diagnose and treat a wide range of knee problems. Common arthroscopic procedures in the knee include:

• Meniscectomy or meniscal repair

• ACL reconstruction, ACL repair

• Patella stabilization surgery (for recurrent patella or “knee cap” dislocations), MPFL reconstruction

• Debridement/chondroplasty (removal of inflamed tissue, or “re-shaping” of the articular cartilage of the knee)

• Removal of loose bodies

• Cartilage transplant procedures (articular cartilage and meniscus cartilage)
   

Like all surgery, there are associated risks. Your Ortho South surgeon will discuss these with you in greater detail before surgery. Physical therapy and realistic expectations are important for successful recovery.