Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat a range of problems inside the knee joint.
It is one of the most commonly performed orthopaedic procedures and, in the right circumstances, allows problems to be addressed through small incisions rather than open surgery.
Arthroscopy means “looking inside a joint.” During the procedure, your surgeon makes two or three small incisions around the knee and inserts a thin camera (called an arthroscope) into the joint. This provides a clear, magnified view of the structures inside the knee, including the cartilage, menisci, ligaments and joint surfaces.
Surgical instruments can be introduced through the same small incisions to treat problems identified during the procedure.
Knee arthroscopy is performed under general anaesthetic, usually takes less than an hour, and is most commonly done as a day procedure, meaning you can usually go home the same day.
The menisci are the two crescent-shaped pads of cartilage that cushion and stabilise the knee. A torn meniscus can cause pain, swelling, locking or giving way. Arthroscopy allows the surgeon to repair or trim the damaged tissue, depending on the nature and location of the tear.
Loose or damaged cartilage on the surface of the joint can cause pain and restrict movement. Arthroscopy can be used to smooth rough surfaces, remove loose fragments, or restore joint surfaces on occasion.
While the ACL graft itself is prepared outside the joint, the reconstruction procedure is performed arthroscopically, allowing the surgeon to place the new ligament with precision through small incisions.
Small fragments of bone or cartilage can become dislodged within the joint, causing pain, catching or locking. These can often be removed arthroscopically.
Arthroscopy is not a routine treatment for knee osteoarthritis and is generally not recommended for that purpose alone. At Melbourne Knee Centre, it is offered in specific situations where a mechanical problem within the joint is contributing to symptoms.
Because arthroscopy uses small incisions rather than a large open wound, most patients go home the same day and begin moving the knee relatively quickly, though the pace of recovery depends significantly on the procedure performed.
For straightforward procedures such as meniscal trimming, many patients are walking comfortably within a few days and return to light activity within two to four weeks. More involved procedures, such as meniscal repair or cartilage work, require a more cautious and structured approach, as the repaired tissue needs time to heal under the right conditions.
Physiotherapy plays an important role in recovery, helping to restore movement, rebuild strength and ensure the knee is functioning well before a return to sport or more demanding activity. Your surgeon and physiotherapist will guide the pace of your rehabilitation based on your procedure and progress.
