What is arthroscopic knee surgery?

Arthroscopic knee surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique that utilises a scope (arthroscope) with a camera and light connected at the end to investigate conditions affecting the health of the knee joint.

Different types of anaesthetic are administered before the procedure, such as:

• Local anaesthesia helps relieve pain in the knee.
• A spinal anaesthetic is delivered through a space in the spinal region.
• General anaesthesia is commonly used for arthroscopic knee surgery.

When do you perform arthroscopic knee surgery?

Arthroscopic knee surgery is a commonly performed minimally invasive surgery of the knee that is conducted for the following reasons:

• Cruciate ligament reconstruction involves replacing the damaged ligament with a donor tissue graft or tissue from the patient's body (autograft).
• Meniscus repair strives to preserve as much healthy meniscus tissue as possible. By conserving as much meniscal tissue as possible, doctors can reduce the likelihood of osteoarthritis.

How do you perform arthroscopic knee surgery?

Modern techniques combined with new suturing methods permit exceptional results. With a meniscus tear, after assessing the location and size of the tear, Dr Grey will decide on an appropriate suturing technique. During meniscus repair, Dr Grey creates several small incisions over the knee and places the arthroscope through one of the openings to assess the health of the ligaments and cartilage. Afterwards, he prepares the torn portions of the meniscus for repair and conserves the remaining healthy tissue. Once the procedure is done, the incisions are closed with layers of sutures, and a watertight dressing is applied. Post-operative physiotherapy will be started in the ward.

Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction is done to replace the torn anterior cruciate ligament to restore its function in providing important internal stabilization of the knee. Participating in running sports following an ACL injury can lead to further damage of the meniscus/cartilage and lead to pain and the sensation of instability. During arthroscopic ACL reconstruction, a tendon graft from the same leg is used to replace the damaged ligament. Dr Grey will prep the graft and then proceed to insert it through small holes into the knee joint and stabilize the graft using various methods.

Recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery takes 9 months and requires patience in order to return to normal function. An intensive physiotherapy program is recommended to help rebuild and strengthen the knee muscles and reduce the risk of further injury.

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