Arthroscopy of the Knee Joint

Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that gives a clear view of the inside of a joint. During knee arthroscopy, Dr. Xenos inserts a small camera (arthroscope) into your knee joint. The camera displays pictures on a monitor and this allows visualization of the knee and use of small surgical instruments.

The knee is a hinge joint made of the thigh bone (femur), leg bone (tibia) and the kneecap (patella). There are 2 areas of “C” shaped cartilage (lateral and medial menisci) which act as shock absorbers. There are 2 sets of ligaments, the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments and lateral and medial collateral ligaments to provide stabilization of the knee.

Several conditions in the knee may require arthroscopic surgery if not responding to nonsurgical treatment. Common conditions include: meniscal tears, loose bodies, and ligament injuries.

Most often knee arthroscopy will be an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. A few small incisions will be made for the arthroscope and instruments. There are a variety of procedures done arthroscopically depending on your condition. Depending on the procedure, you may require crutches, a walker and/or physical therapy after the surgery.

Most often people return to their regular activities after knee arthroscopy. This is dependent on the procedure performed.