Knee Arthroscopy

Knee pain can disrupt daily life, making simple movements difficult. If you’re dealing with knee injuries or chronic discomfort, knee arthroscopy may be an effective treatment option.

At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, serving Granville, Newark, Coshocton, Heath, and Buckeye Lake, Ohio, our expert orthopedic surgeons specialize in advanced knee arthroscopy procedures to help patients regain mobility and find pain relief. Contact us today to learn more!

What is Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various knee joint conditions. During the procedure, a surgeon inserts a small camera (arthroscope) into the knee through tiny incisions, allowing for a detailed view of the joint.

Specialized instruments are then used to repair or remove damaged tissue. Compared to traditional knee surgery, arthroscopy results in less pain, fewer complications, and a quicker recovery.

Who Needs Knee Arthroscopy?

Individuals who have persistent knee pain, swelling, or difficulty moving the knee despite physical therapy and other non-surgical treatments may benefit from knee arthroscopy. This procedure is often recommended for athletes, active individuals, and those experiencing knee injuries that do not heal with conservative care.

What Conditions Does Knee Arthroscopy Treat?

Knee arthroscopy is used to address a variety of conditions, including:

A torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries
Meniscus tears
Cartilage damage
Loose bone or cartilage fragments
Synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining)
Patellar (kneecap) issues
Mild to moderate arthritis

If you’re struggling with one of these conditions, an experienced orthopedic surgeon can determine if arthroscopy is the best option for you.

What Happens Before Knee Arthroscopy?

Before undergoing knee arthroscopy, you will have a consultation with your surgeon to review your medical history and discuss the procedure. Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs may be ordered to assess the extent of your injury.

Leading up to the procedure, you may need to:

Stop taking certain medications to reduce the risk of blood clots
Arrange for transportation home after the surgery
Avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the procedure

Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions to ensure you’re fully prepared.

What Happens During Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is typically performed under local, regional, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the procedure. The key steps include:

Small Incisions – Tiny cuts are made in the knee to insert the arthroscope and surgical tools.
Arthroscopic Examination – The camera projects images onto a screen, guiding the surgeon.
Treatment – Damaged cartilage or torn ligaments are repaired or removed.
Closure – The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape, and the knee is bandaged.

The procedure usually takes less than an hour, and most patients return home the same day.

What Happens After Knee Arthroscopy?

After surgery, your knee will be wrapped in a bandage, and you may be advised to keep your leg elevated to reduce swelling. Pain medication and ice packs can help relieve pain.

Your surgeon will provide instructions on when to:

Start gentle movements to prevent stiffness
Begin physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility
Return to normal activities, depending on your healing progress

What Are the Risks of Knee Arthroscopy?

Although arthroscopic surgery is generally safe, potential risks include:

Blood clots
Infection
Knee stiffness
Persistent pain
Nerve or blood vessel damage (rare)

Choosing a skilled orthopedic surgeon significantly reduces these risks.

What Are the Benefits of Knee Arthroscopy?

Compared to traditional knee surgery, knee arthroscopy offers several advantages:

Minimally invasive – Smaller incisions mean less tissue damage
Faster recovery – Most patients return to activities sooner
Less pain – Reduced post-operative discomfort
Lower risk of complications – Fewer infections and blood clots

For many patients, knee arthroscopy provides effective pain relief and improved joint function.

Recovery After Knee Arthroscopy

Recovery time varies depending on the condition treated, but most patients resume light activities within a few weeks. A physical therapist will guide you through rehabilitation exercises to restore movement and strength.

Typical recovery milestones:

First few days: You will need to rest with your leg elevated. Ice packs are usually recommended.
1-2 weeks: You will begin with gentle stretching and strengthening exercises
4-6 weeks: Gradual return to daily activities
3+ months: Full recovery for more complex repairs, such as ACL reconstruction

Adhering to your physical therapy plan ensures the best outcome.

Expert Knee Care in Granville and Coshocton, Ohio

If you’re struggling with knee pain and conservative treatments aren’t helping, knee arthroscopy may be the solution. At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, our experienced team provides personalized care to help you regain mobility and enjoy an active lifestyle. Schedule a consultation today!

Medically reviewed by Eric Erb, MD