Knee arthroscopy

Alternative names:

ACL reconstruction; arthroscopic debridement; arthroscopic lateral retinacular release; arthroscopic meniscal repair; arthroscopic meniscectomy; arthroscopic patellar debridement; arthroscopic removal of loose bodies; arthroscopic synovectomy; arthroscopic-assisted ACL reconstruction; meniscectomy; patellar debridement; synovectomy

Definition:

Surgery to examine or repair tissues inside the knee joint through a special scope (arthroscope).

Description:

Arthroscopic knee surgery (scope in the knee joint) is one of the most common orthopedic procedures performed today. While the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia) or sleepy (sedated) and pain-free (regional anesthesia or spinal anesthesia), several small punctures are made into the knee joint. The viewing scope (arthroscope) and other instruments are inserted into the knee joint. The surgeon can see the ligaments, the knee disc (meniscus), the knee bone (patella), the lining of the joint (synovium), and the rest of the joint. Damaged tissues can be removed. Arthroscopy can also be used to help view the inside of the knee while ligaments or tendons are repaired from the outside.

Most arthroscopic surgery is done on an outpatient basis, not requiring overnight hospitalization.

Indications:

Arthroscopy may be recommended for knee problems such as:

• a torn knee disc (meniscus)
• a damaged knee bone (patella)
• a damaged ligament
• inflamed or damaged lining of the joint (synovium)