Knee Arthroscopy

 

What is Knee Arthroscopy

Knee Arthroscopy is a procedure which gives the surgeon an internal view of the knee joint and surrounding tissue by inserting a special camera known as an arthroscope. Under anaesthetic, small incisions are made to insert the arthroscope and any instruments required to perform the necessary surgery on the knee. A Knee Arthroscope is key-hole surgery, which usually aids in the procedure being less painful and the patient returning to everyday life much faster.

 

Why would I need a Knee Arthroscope?

A Knee Arthroscope may be performed to examine the knee closely and see why the patient is experiencing pain. An arthroscope may also be carried out to;

  • repair Meniscus Tear
  • perform an ACL reconstruction
  • trim damaged cartilage
  • remove loose bone or cartilage
  • treat infections
Next Steps

 

Speak with your GP or family doctor about your condition and get a referral to see Mr Barnes. Mr Barnes will then review your medical information and discuss your treatment options.

Common Conditions

 

Meniscus Tear
The meniscus is a semi-circular shaped cartilage that acts as cushion between the joint surfaces of the knee. The meniscus also helps to stabilise the knee and may be torn after a twisting injury. Patients may experience symptoms such as pain or “catching”, and in severe cases episodes of the knee giving way or locking. Knee arthroscopy may be required in such cases to shave back the tear and provide symptom relief. Young athletes with “buckethandle” type tears may be amenable to repair with stitches, especially where there is an associated ligament injury.

 

At your appointment, Mr Barnes will discuss all your surgical options in detail and go over any questions you may have about your planned surgery and recovery.