Overview
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that uses a small camera (arthroscope) and instruments inserted through small incisions to look inside the knee and treat certain problems.
It is commonly used for meniscus tears, loose bodies and some cartilage or ligament problems. For knee pain due mainly to osteoarthritis, arthroscopy is generally not recommended.
Watch: how Arthroscopic Knee Surgery works
Video: “Understanding Meniscus Surgery: What to Expect and How to Prepare - Ask Mayo Clinic Health System” from Mayo Clinic Health System on YouTube. It loads from youtube-nocookie.com only when you press play. Shown for general education; GSMC did not produce it. Watch on YouTube
How it works
Under anesthesia, the surgeon makes small incisions, inserts the arthroscope to view the joint on a monitor and uses small instruments to repair or trim damaged tissue.
Who it may be for
- Symptomatic meniscus tears with mechanical symptoms such as locking
- Loose bodies in the joint
- Certain cartilage or ligament injuries
- Symptoms not improved with conservative care
Your exam and imaging decide whether this treatment is appropriate for you.
What to expect
- Before: exam, MRI review and pre-operative testing.
- Day of surgery: outpatient procedure under anesthesia.
- After: home the same day with a rehabilitation plan.
Recovery
Many people walk the same day with support. Return to activity depends on the procedure performed and can range from weeks to months. Your instructions may differ.
Risks and side effects
Every procedure has risks. Your physician will review them with you, including:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Stiffness
- Persistent pain
- Nerve or vessel injury (rare)
Insurance and cost
Many plans, including Medicare, may cover this treatment when criteria are met. We verify benefits before scheduling. See accepted insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Is arthroscopy helpful for knee arthritis?
For pain mainly from osteoarthritis, studies show arthroscopy generally does not help more than non-surgical care.
How long is recovery?
It depends on what was done. A trim may need a few weeks, while a meniscus repair takes longer.
Who performs this at GSMC?
Please call 732-202-3000 to confirm which surgeon performs this procedure and at which office.
This page is general patient education and does not replace advice from your own clinician. Individual results vary.