Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows Dr Rogers to visualise your knee joint without making a large incision through the skin and other soft tissues. Arthroscopy employs a small camera to visualise the knee joint and is used to diagnose and treat a wide range of knee problems.

The camera displays pictures on a video monitor, and your surgeon uses these images to guide miniature surgical instruments to treat torn menisci, reconstruct torn cruciate ligaments or debride damaged cartilage. The use of arthroscopy and smaller incisions results in less pain and joint stiffness for patients, and often shortens the time it takes to recover and return to favorite activities.

Dr Rogers may recommend knee arthroscopy if you have a painful condition that does not respond to non-surgical treatment. Non-surgical treatment includes rest, physiotherapy, and medications or injections that can reduce inflammation. Knee arthroscopy may relieve painful symptoms caused by problems that damage the articulate cartilage surfaces and other soft tissues and ligaments in and surrounding the knee.

The knee is the largest joint in your body and one of the most complex. Numerous ligaments are involved in knee congruency, movement and stability. These include but are not limited to medial and lateral menisci, medial and lateral collaterals (including the postero-lateral corner), anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments and the medial patellofemoral ligament. Other important structures include articulated cartilage and synovium.

The physiotherapist will see you after you knee arthroscopy. You will be expected to mobilise as soon as possible, as pain and discomfort allow. Mobility is extremely important to aid in preventing the formation of blood clots and avoiding other potential complications.