Knee Arthroscopy

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What Is It?

 

Knee arthroscopy is one of the most common procedures in orthopaedic surgery.  The basics of knee arthroscopy are similar to arthroscopy of other joints.  A camera and light source are the basis of all arthroscopic procedures.  Arthroscopy of the knee requires minimal joint distraction and can be performed on a standard operating table.  Most knee arthroscopic tools are standardized.  Certain specialized tools may be needed for cartilage restoration/repair or ligament repair.

 

Who Should Have It?

 

Knee arthroscopy is a technology that can be used for a variety conditions including loose body removal, treatment of inflamed tissue, cartilage tear treatment, and ligament repair.  The utility of an arthroscopic procedure may depend on the x-ray film appearance of the knee joint.  Knee arthroscopy for arthritis is a controversial topic.

 

What Are Some of The Risks?

 

Basic surgical risks include infection, bleeding, and anesthesia.  Other risks include damage to normal nerves, blood vessels, and cartilage.  The nerves that may be injured in a knee arthroscopy are the femoral (related to tourniquet compression) and infrapatellar (related to portal placement).  Specialized knee arthroscopy to repair meniscal cartilage may damage the saphenous nerve on the inside of the knee or the peroneal nerve on the outside of the knee.  This is not an all inclusive list.

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