Knee Arthroscopy
Minimally invasive knee surgery for diagnosis and treatment of joint problems.
Knee arthroscopy uses a small camera inserted through tiny incisions to examine and treat problems inside the knee joint, without the need for a large open incision. It allows both diagnosis and treatment in the same procedure for many common knee conditions, generally with a faster recovery than open surgery.
Types
Diagnostic Arthroscopy
Used to directly visualise the inside of the joint when the exact cause of symptoms is unclear from imaging alone.
Meniscus Repair or Trim
Torn meniscus cartilage is either repaired or trimmed depending on the tear's location and pattern.
ACL Reconstruction
A torn ACL ligament is reconstructed using a graft, performed arthroscopically.
Cartilage Debridement
Damaged or loose cartilage fragments are cleaned out to reduce mechanical symptoms.
Synovectomy
Inflamed joint lining is removed, used in certain inflammatory joint conditions.
Common Causes
Knee arthroscopy is used to investigate or treat a range of problems inside the joint, most often following injury or due to degenerative wear.
- Meniscus tears - from twisting injuries during sport, or degenerative wear in older adults.
- ACL and other ligament tears - typically from sudden direction changes, pivoting, or impact during sport.
- Loose bodies - small fragments of bone or cartilage floating within the joint, causing catching or locking.
- Early-stage cartilage damage - localised wear that has not progressed to the point of needing joint replacement.
- Unexplained knee symptoms - persistent pain, swelling, or catching where imaging has not given a clear diagnosis.
Signs and Symptoms
- Knee pain, often worse with twisting or pivoting movements
- Swelling that develops after activity or injury
- A catching, locking, or giving-way sensation in the knee
- Limited range of motion, particularly full straightening or bending
- A popping sensation at the time of the original injury
Diagnosis
Assessment starts with a clinical examination of the knee's stability and movement, followed by an MRI, which is the most useful imaging test for detailing soft tissue structures like the meniscus and ligaments before arthroscopy is planned.
Treatment Approach
The procedure is performed through a few small incisions using a camera and specialised instruments, allowing direct treatment of the identified problem in the same sitting. Recovery time varies depending on what was treated - a diagnostic look or simple trim recovers faster than a ligament reconstruction. Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna explains what the arthroscopy is expected to find and treat, and what recovery will involve, before the procedure.
Please note: This page is for general information only and does not replace a proper medical evaluation. Every case is different, and the underlying cause of your symptoms may not match what is described here. Please do not use this page to self-diagnose - consult Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna or another qualified orthopaedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis specific to you.
← Back to Arthroscopy (Knee & Shoulder)
Last reviewed: August 2026