Knee Arthroscopy Specialist

What is knee arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is a surgery that allows your provider at Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson to examine the tissues inside your knee joint, diagnose injuries and diseases, and repair the problems.

To perform knee arthroscopy, your provider makes small incisions and uses slender instruments that easily fit through the tiny openings. They first insert the arthroscope, which contains a video camera and lighting.

The camera sends magnified images from inside the joint to a monitor. After viewing the tissues, your provider surgically repairs problems by inserting instruments through the scope or a second incision.

What are the benefits of minimally invasive knee arthroscopy?

Small incisions cause less trauma than does traditional open surgery. As a result, you have less pain after surgery, and you can go home the same day. You’ll also recover faster and with far less scarring.

When might I need knee arthroscopy?

The Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson starts your treatment with conservative measures like rest, immobilization (braces or casts), activity changes, injections, and physical therapy.

If your symptoms don’t improve or you have a severe injury or extensive joint damage, they recommend knee arthroscopy.

Knee injuries and condition with a higher chance of needing surgery include:

• Ligament tears
• Meniscus tears
• Fractures
• Patella or quad tendon ruptures
• Kneecap dislocation
• Advanced arthritis
• Osteonecrosis (bone cell death leading to weakened joints)

The Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson repairs all types of knee problems using arthroscopic surgery. You can depend on their surgical expertise whether you need ligament reconstruction, meniscus repair, debridement, or a knee replacement, to name a few examples.

What should I expect during and after knee arthroscopy?

The Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson uses regional analgesia and light anesthesia during knee arthroscopy. Most procedures take 1-2 hours. You’ll then stay in supervised recovery for a few hours before going home.

You’ll use crutches, a cane, or a walker for a short time after your surgery. However, the sooner you start to move your knee, the better for your recovery. Your provider teaches you exercises you can do at home right away to reduce inflammation and ease your pain while restoring movement.

As your knee heals, you receive physical therapy to rebuild strength and the full range of motion. If your goal is to return to sports, your physical therapy includes sport-specific exercises and training. 

If you have ongoing knee pain, call the Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson today or book an appointment online to learn if knee arthroscopy can help improve your condition.