What Can Be Achieved with Knee Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy allows direct visualisation of all three compartments of the knee joint, the articular cartilage, menisci, and cruciate ligaments — providing far greater diagnostic detail than imaging alone in many circumstances. It is also used to perform a wide range of surgical treatments with minimal soft tissue disruption.
- Meniscal surgery — repair of repairable tears, partial meniscectomy (trimming) of irreparable tears causing mechanical symptoms
- Articular cartilage treatment — debridement of unstable flaps, microfracture to stimulate cartilage healing, or assessment prior to more formal cartilage restoration
- Loose body removal — excision of osteochondral fragments causing locking and pain
- Synovectomy — removal of inflamed synovial tissue in inflammatory arthritis
- ACL and ligament assessment — arthroscopy is often combined with ligament reconstruction procedures
- Patellofemoral procedures — lateral release or stabilisation for patellar maltracking
The Procedure
Knee arthroscopy is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia and is almost always done as a day procedure. The knee is positioned and a tourniquet applied to provide a bloodless surgical field. Saline irrigation distends the joint and maintains visibility.
Portals
Two or three small incisions of around 5mm allow introduction of the camera and working instruments into the joint.
Visualisation
The entire joint is systematically inspected under magnification, providing detailed assessment of all joint structures.
Duration
Typically 30–90 minutes depending on the extent of pathology and the procedures required.
Recovery
Recovery following knee arthroscopy varies considerably depending on what was performed. Simple diagnostic arthroscopy or meniscectomy allows early weight-bearing and most patients are walking comfortably within a few days. Meniscal repair requires a more conservative rehabilitation to protect the repair while healing occurs.
Days 1–7
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation to manage swelling. Walking with crutches if necessary. Small dressings cover the portal wounds.
Weeks 2–6
Progressive physiotherapy to restore range of motion and quadriceps strength. Return to driving and light work.
Months 2–6
Return to sport and higher-demand activities, guided by physiotherapy. Timeline extended to 3–6 months following meniscal repair.
Discuss Knee Arthroscopy
For a personalised assessment and treatment plan, contact Dr. Pirpiris’s rooms at Cabrini Medical Centre, Malvern.
📞 Call 03 9508 9600