Frequently Asked Questions – Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive way to diagnose and treat selected problems inside the knee. These FAQs explain when it is used and what recovery typically involves.

Answers below are for education and do not replace a personal orthopaedic consultation.

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small camera is inserted into the knee through a small incision to diagnose and treat selected joint problems.

Arthroscopy can be used for selected problems involving the meniscus, cartilage, ligaments, loose bodies, synovium and other structures inside the knee.

Arthroscopy uses small incisions and is generally less invasive than open knee surgery, but it remains a surgical procedure with potential risks and should only be performed when appropriately indicated.

Yes. Knee arthroscopy is commonly referred to as keyhole or minimally invasive knee surgery because it uses small incisions.

Depending on the individual case, arthroscopy may be used for meniscus tears, selected cartilage problems, ACL reconstruction, loose bodies and certain inflammatory or synovial conditions.

Arthroscopy allows the surgeon to directly visualise structures inside the knee. However, most patients can be diagnosed using history, examination and appropriate imaging without diagnostic arthroscopy.

Not always, but MRI is frequently useful when assessing meniscus, ligament and cartilage problems and helps plan treatment.

Some pain and swelling are expected after surgery. Pain is generally managed with medication, ice, activity modification and rehabilitation.

The duration depends on the procedure being performed. A straightforward arthroscopic procedure may be relatively short, while ACL reconstruction or complex meniscus repair takes longer.

Many arthroscopic knee procedures are performed as day-care surgeries, allowing patients to return home after appropriate recovery from anaesthesia.

This depends on the procedure. Patients undergoing some arthroscopic procedures can bear weight early, whereas meniscus repair or other procedures may require protected weight-bearing.

Some swelling is normal after surgery and gradually decreases. The duration depends on the procedure, activity level and individual healing.

Return to work depends on your occupation and the procedure performed. Desk-based work may resume earlier than physically demanding work.

Driving should be resumed only when you have adequate control of the leg, can safely operate the vehicle and are not taking medications that impair alertness.

Physiotherapy may be recommended to restore movement, strength and function, particularly after procedures such as ACL reconstruction or meniscus repair.

Potential risks include infection, bleeding, blood clots, stiffness, persistent pain, nerve or blood-vessel injury and complications related to anaesthesia.

Arthroscopy does not reverse established osteoarthritis. Its role depends on the specific problem causing symptoms and should not be considered a universal treatment for arthritis.

Yes. Selected meniscus tears can be repaired or partially removed using arthroscopic surgery.

Yes. ACL reconstruction is commonly performed arthroscopically using small portals around the knee.

The decision depends on your symptoms, examination, imaging, diagnosis, activity requirements and response to non-surgical treatment. An orthopaedic assessment is the best way to determine whether arthroscopy is appropriate.

If knee pain, instability or swelling is affecting your daily life, book a consultation with Dr. Tushar Nayak for a personalised assessment and treatment plan.