What is arthroscopic knee surgery?
During arthroscopic surgery, a thin camera is inserted through small incisions near the knee. The camera allows the surgeon to view the structures in and around the knee joint, and instruments can be inserted through other small incisions if treatment is needed.
During arthroscopy, the surgeon can examine the menisci, cartilage, and ligaments, among other things. Depending on the cause of your symptoms, an injury can sometimes be treated during the same surgery.
Arthroscopic surgery is not the appropriate treatment for all types of knee pain. The need for surgery is therefore assessed based on your symptoms, an examination of your knee, any imaging studies, and the effectiveness of the treatments you have already tried.
When might surgery be an option?
There may be various reasons why knee surgery is considered. Some conditions can be treated directly with arthroscopy, while surgery for other conditions is used only in specific cases.
Meniscus Injury and Meniscus Tear
The menisci are two cartilage discs in the knee that, among other things, help distribute the load and stabilize the knee joint. A meniscus injury can cause pain, swelling, a clicking sensation, or a feeling that something is getting pinched. Some people also experience locking of the knee.
Many meniscus injuries are initially treated without surgery, including through targeted exercise. In cases of persistent mechanical symptoms or certain types of meniscus injuries, arthroscopic surgery may be appropriate.
During the operation, the surgeon assesses the injury. If possible and appropriate, the meniscus can be sutured back together. In other cases, it may be necessary to remove a small, damaged portion of the meniscus. The goal is to preserve as much functional meniscus tissue as possible.
Jumper's knee
Jumper's knee is a condition caused by overuse of the tendon attached to the kneecap. This condition is commonly seen in sports that involve a lot of jumping, landing, and quick changes of direction, and can cause pain around the lower part of the kneecap.
Treatment generally consists of rest, adjusting the level of activity, and targeted rehabilitation. For a small number of patients, surgery may be considered if symptoms persist despite a prolonged course of appropriate treatment.
If surgery is being considered, the specialist will determine which surgical method is appropriate based on your symptoms and the findings of the examination.
Runner's knee
Runner's knee typically causes pain on the outside of the knee and is common among runners and cyclists. The discomfort is associated with irritation around the iliotibial band on the outside of the knee.
Most cases are treated without surgery. Treatment may include, among other things, adjustments to the intensity of exercise, as well as targeted strength and flexibility training.
If your symptoms persist despite appropriate treatment, surgical treatment may be considered in rare cases. The specific procedure that may be appropriate depends on the underlying cause of your symptoms.
