Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat a variety of knee problems. During the procedure, a small camera called an arthroscope is inserted into the knee joint through tiny incisions. The camera allows the Dr van Niekerk to clearly visualise the structures within the knee on a monitor while specialised surgical instruments are used to perform the required treatment.

Because arthroscopy uses small incisions, patients generally experience less pain, reduced scarring, and a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

What are the indications for knee arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy may be recommended for the diagnosis and treatment of several knee conditions, including:

• Meniscal tears and meniscus injuries
• Ligament injuries, including anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears
• Damaged or worn cartilage within the knee joint
• Loose fragments of cartilage or bone inside the knee
• Knee osteoarthritis in selected cases
• Baker’s cysts (popliteal cysts)
• Persistent knee pain, swelling, or stiffness
• Inflammation of the joint lining (synovitis)
• Knee instability or locking symptoms
• Sports-related knee injuries

What are the various arthroscopic knee procedures?

Knee arthroscopy is a less invasive surgical technique performed to treat a broad range of knee conditions, such as the following:

Overview of knee arthroscopic procedures performed:

• Meniscus repair: Arthroscopic meniscus repair is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home on the same day. The primary objective is to preserve meniscal tissue and maintain optimal knee function.
• Meniscectomy: This procedure involves the surgical removal of damaged meniscal tissue. It is associated with favourable short-term outcomes.
• Baker’s cyst: Baker's cysts, also known as popliteal cysts, are common knee disorders. Arthroscopic knee surgery, a minimally invasive technique, is frequently employed to treat Baker’s cysts.
• Osteoarthritis: Arthroscopic surgery for knee osteoarthritis is a minimally invasive, day-case procedure used to address this degenerative joint disorder, which may worsen over time without intervention.
• Cruciate ligament repair: Arthroscopic cruciate ligament repair, most commonly for the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), is a minimally invasive procedure performed to reattach a torn ligament.
• Chondroplasty: This minimally invasive surgical technique is used to clean and smooth damaged cartilage within the knee joint.
• Microfracture: Arthroscopic microfracture is a minimally invasive procedure in which small holes are created in the underlying bone to stimulate the repair of damaged knee cartilage.
• Arthroscopic cartilage debridement: This keyhole surgical procedure involves the removal of fragmented cartilage and tissue to restore knee mobility.

How is knee arthroscopy performed?

Knee arthroscopy is usually performed under general or regional anaesthesia as a day procedure. Small incisions are made around the knee to insert the arthroscope and surgical instruments. Sterile fluid is introduced into the joint to improve visibility during the procedure.

Once the problem has been identified, the appropriate treatment is carried out using specialised instruments. After the procedure, the incisions are closed and covered with dressings.

What is recovery like after knee arthroscopy?

During the early recovery period, you may be advised to:

• Rest and elevate the knee
• Apply ice to reduce swelling
• Use crutches temporarily to limit weight-bearing
• Wear a knee brace if required
• Begin physiotherapy to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion

Physical therapy is an important part of rehabilitation and helps improve knee stability, movement, and overall function. Return to work and sporting activities depends on the type of surgery performed and individual recovery progress.

These procedures are performed at Cintocare Private Hopital in Pretoria, South Africa.