KNEE

Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is a form of keyhole surgery that involves inserting a small telescope (arthroscope) into the knee to help diagnose and/or treat common knee injuries.

The benefits of arthroscopy include small incisions, minimal scarring, fast healing and rapid recovery. Common arthroscopic procedures include:

  • Repair of torn meniscus, partial meniscectomy (removal of meniscus) or meniscus transplant
  • Reconstruction of ruptured ligaments
  • Removal of inflamed synovial tissue
  • Treatment of patella problems
  • Removal of loose fragments of bone or cartilage
  • Treatment of knee sepsis (infection)

Procedure

Arthroscopy is usually done through small incisions around the knee. A small telescope with a camera on the end projects the image onto a nearby monitor that allows the surgeon to get a closer look at the knee joint. If a diagnosis is made and treatment is required, Dr du Sart can insert tiny instruments through the other small incisions. 


Knee arthroscopy is usually treated as day-case surgery. Depending on your diagnosis and treatment required, the procedure takes roughly fifteen to thirty minutes to complete and you can typically go home four to six hours post operation.

After You Operation

Pain Management

During your inpatient stay you will be given pain relief and either medication or prescriptions to go home to keep pain within comfort. Usually patients will initially require regular pain relief consisting of paracetamol and anti-inflammatories if indicated. Stronger medications may be given and helpful in early stages however are phased out as comfort levels increase.


Mobility

Recovery from knee arthroscopy is usually much faster than recovery from traditional open knee surgery. Following surgery you may get up and use the leg freely within pain. In most cases you are able to walk on your leg with full weight bearing. Crutches are not usually required. 

In general, no specific physiotherapy is required, however range of motion exercises such as simple bending and straightening can be helpful to restore motion and strength of your leg and knee.


Return to Work and Sport

Return to work and sport will vary on the nature of your work and what was done at surgery. In general, you should plan to have 1-2 weeks off work to allow correct management of swelling and pain. 


Low impact activities such as cycling and swimming/hydrotherapy can be commenced from week 4 and is also recommended to help increase muscle strength and function. High impact activities such as running and jumping are best avoided for at least 12 weeks post operation. Dr du Sart and your physiotherapist will give you clear parameters depending on your diagnosis and injury.


Driving

Times to return to driving will vary. If you have an automatic car and your left knee was operated on, your return to driving may be faster. It is recommended to return to driving once you have regained motion and control of the knee and feel safe on the road, usually three to four days post operation. If you have concerns, you can discuss this with Dr du Sart.

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