Knee Arthroscopy
Also known as: keyhole knee surgery, laparoscopic surgery of the knee joint
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various knee injuries and conditions.
What is arthroscopic knee surgery?
During the procedure, an orthopaedic surgeon inserts a tiny camera, known as an arthroscope, through a small incision to visualise the inside of the knee joint. The camera transmits images to a screen in the operating room, allowing the surgeon to diagnose issues within the knee. Compared to traditional surgery, knee arthroscopy requires smaller incisions, which often results in less pain and stiffness for patients. This approach not only helps in diagnosing knee problems but also shortens the recovery time, enabling patients to return to their usual activities quicker.
Most knee arthroscopy surgeries are carried out in less than an hour. Although, like all surgeries, a knee arthroscopy might carry certain health risks, these tend to be small and rare.
Conditions Treated with Knee Arthroscopy
Knee arthroscopy is a versatile procedure used to diagnose and treat a wide range of knee issues. Some of the conditions that can be addressed with knee arthroscopy include:
- Meniscal Tears: These are tears in the cartilage that cushions the knee joint.
- Ligament Sprains or Tears: Injuries to the ligaments that connect the bones in the knee joint.
- Cartilage Damage: Wear and tear on the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones in the knee joint.
- Osteochondral Lesions: Damage to both the cartilage and bone in the knee joint.
- Loose Bodies in the Knee Joint: Small pieces of bone or cartilage that can cause pain and stiffness.
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) & Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injuries: Tears in the ligament that connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone).
By addressing these issues, knee arthroscopy can significantly improve function and relieve knee pain.
Although a knee arthroscopy is a fairly pain-free operation due to the small incisions made to get inside of your knee, there may be situations where it isn’t necessarily the best treatment for you to receive.
At Hemel’s Private Hospital, we promise to only recommend a knee arthroscopy if that is truly the best option. Your orthopaedic surgeon will tell you honestly if there is another route for you to take.
Hospital fee guide price: £2,646
Procedure price subject to bespoke quotation
*Additional consultant fee not included
Before surgery
Initially, you’ll come in for consultation with one of our orthopaedic surgeons. They’ll assess your condition and recommend whether arthroscopic knee surgery is the right route for you. During the consultation our doctors will survey the knee joint to ensure that they can recommend knee arthroscopy as opposed to tackling the knee pain with non-surgical treatment. If arthroscopic surgery turns out to be the best solution for your knee pain, we will help you arrange your operation.
Although any surgery may cause some anxiety, keep in mind that our team will help prepare and support you throughout the knee arthroscopy experience. Prior to your surgery, you may have to follow these steps:
- We recommend that you organise your home in a way that will allow you to properly relax and recover. This may mean moving your bedroom downstairs, creating spaces that’ll keep your leg elevated, and removing items that may create trip hazards.
- If you have someone who can care for you after the operation to help manage pain and ensure you’re cared for, then that is often helpful to many patients.
- On the day of your knee arthroscopic surgery, make sure that you wear loose clothing and remove all jewellery. Our team will make sure to remind you on the day too.
You may be asked to attend a pre-admission consultation before your surgery, to best prepare you for the operation.
During this consultation, your surgeon will review any medications (including over-the-counter drugs and supplements) you are currently taking. You may be advised to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, blood thinning medication or supplements in the weeks leading up to your surgery. Additionally, you’ll need to stop smoking, as it increases the risk of complications, like infection.
Your doctor may also perform tests, such as blood tests, X-Rays, ultrasound, or an electrocardiogram (ECG), to evaluate your overall fitness for the surgery. If you have specific health concerns, further tests might be required.
At this appointment, you will receive important information, including:
- Instructions on what to eat and drink before your procedure (e.g., fasting for six hours, depending on the type of anaesthetic used)
- An estimated timeline for your full recovery
- Guidance on any medications you should start or stop before surgery
- What to expect after your knee arthroscopy
Your consultant will also discuss the potential risks of the arthroscopic surgery and answer any questions you may have. Finally, you will be asked to sign a consent form to confirm your agreement to proceed with the arthroscopy.
During surgery
A knee arthroscopy is performed under general anaesthetic. The surgeon will make a number of small laparoscopic (keyhole) incisions on the knee and a sterile solution will be pumped into the area to give greater visibility. The arthroscope is passed through one of the incisions in order to assess the area. This will allow them to survey the afflicted area on a larger viewing screen and diagnose and treat your issue.
If an identifiable cause is detected during the surgery, the surgeon is sometimes able to carry out the necessary repairs during the same procedure. This is done by passing specialised instruments through the remaining incisions. Any damage can then be repaired and/or cartilage, bone and tissue removed. In some cases, further treatment may be needed if a diagnosis is not reached during the procedure.
The whole procedure usually takes 45 minutes.
You will then be moved from the operating room to an appropriate ward where you will wake from the general anaesthesia.
After surgery
Although most patients are able to leave the hospital the same day, our team will still keep you in our recovery ward for a few hours after the operation to go through the next steps with you.
These instructions may include:
- The length of recovery time you’ll need (typically 4-6 weeks).
- The medicine you’ll need to take to reduce swelling and help with any pain relief.
- How long you’ll need to keep your leg elevated.
- Booking a follow-up appointment with one of our orthopaedic surgeons to survey the recovering knee joint and assess whether or not you’ll need a physical therapist to help with your recovery journey.
- Whether certain medications you’re on may impact your recovery.
If you experience any urgent pain inside of your knee that isn’t helped with pain medication, a meniscal tear, issues with the stitches, or anything else that is concerning you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your surgeon or Hemel’s Private Hospital immediately.
Appointment and Treatment Plan
Appointment
Based on your previous consultation with a doctor, an appointment will be arranged between you and your surgeon.
Treatment plan
During this appointment, you’ll go through your medical history, the surgery, the recovery, and together, you’ll decide whether this is a viable option for you.
Pre-op assessment
If surgery is an option, then the surgeon and their team will thoroughly assess whether you’re right for the surgery. They’ll consider your current health, any previous issues, and other external matters.
Surgery
Prior to going through the surgery, our team will ensure that you’re prepped once again. If everything is confirmed, you’ll undergo the surgery and then we’ll explain the aftercare instructions.
Aftercare
If necessary, you’ll stay in a ward for a few hours to ensure that you’re ready to go home after the surgery. However, this may depend on the surgery outcome and whether you need moderate or light assistance.
Follow-Up
You’ll come in a few weeks later and we’ll give you one final check-over to ensure that you’re on track for recovery.
Experts
We are proud to provide patients with access to a wide range of clinicians, chosen specifically for their knowledge and reputation in their area of expertise. Our experts align with our values: putting you at the centre of your care and educating you on your options at each step of the journey. We encourage you to learn more about our clinicians and how they can help you below. As always, please contact our patient services team if you require any additional information.
We offer 3 ways to pay for your treatment
We exist to take the stress out of private healthcare.
Our payment options are designed to offer you easy access to our treatments and services. You can choose to pay on the day, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance.
Our patient services team will guide you through the process, providing clear costs and support throughout your course of treatment so you can focus on the thing that matters most – your health.
Whether you pay in advance, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance, rest assured you will be receiving exceptional care 365 days a year.
Pay in Advance
Even if you do not have medical insurance, you can still get quick and comprehensive access to private medical care.
We provide transparent pricing from your initial consultation to the completion of your treatment so you know where your stand, every step of the way.
We accept all major debit and credit cards, as well as Apple Pay for UK residents. Please note that we do not accept cash or cheques.
Pay monthly
Paying for your treatment at OSD Healthcare doesn’t need to mean settling the full cost in one go.
Many of our treatments have a pay monthly option that allows you to spread the cost of your treatment over 12 months with no credit checks required.
A minimum spend of £300 does apply. We’ll take your first payment upfront and then arrange a direct debit for your monthly payments thereafter. It’s that simple.
Pay using PMI
We are recognised by all major health insurance companies and with our extensive range of services, there are lots of benefits to using your insurance with us. Our patient services team is here to answer any questions you may have about using your private health insurance with us.
Please bring along your policy details including your scheme details, membership or policy number, expiry date and confirmation of eligibility to claim (i.e. your authorisation number). If you do not have these details with you, we will require payment from you on the day. Patients are liable for any amounts not settled by their insurer.
Hospital fee guide price: £2,646
Procedure price subject to bespoke quotation
*Additional consultant fee not included
FAQs
Knee pain can be caused by a range of factors, including overuse, injuries such as torn ligaments or meniscus tears, and medical conditions like arthritis, gout, or infections. Identifying the root cause of the pain is essential for determining the appropriate treatment.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional, who may also recommend imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to get a clearer picture of the knee joint’s condition. Blood tests may also be conducted to rule out infections or other underlying conditions.
Treatment options vary based on the cause and severity of the pain. They may include rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE method), physical therapy, pain relief medications, or injections. In more severe cases, surgical procedures like arthroscopic knee surgery may be necessary to address underlying issues.
Yes, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in low-impact exercises, and wearing supportive footwear can help alleviate pain and prevent further injury. Strengthening the muscles around the knee joint can also provide better support and reduce stress on the knee.
If knee pain persists despite self-care measures, or if it is accompanied by swelling, redness, tenderness, or warmth around the joint, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Additionally, any inability to bear weight on the knee or a noticeable deformity should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional.
Understanding these aspects of knee treatment can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and seek appropriate care when necessary.
If you’re about to undergo a knee arthroscopy, then here are a few things you can do to help you through the experience.
Listen to Your Orthopaedic Surgeon
The surgeon (and their team) that’s assigned to your knee arthroscopy will know your medical history, will be the person who is taking you on this journey, and will be someone you can trust. Knee arthroscopy is more likely to be successful if the patient listens to the surgeon and the surgeon listens to the patient. We want all of our patients to feel heard, so if you have an issue, please tell our team. Our surgeons would not advise you to do something if it wasn’t in your best interest.
Keep Up with Your Aftercare
A knee arthroscopy is typically a quick surgery. Although the recovery time can last a few weeks, it is usually straightforward. However, if you don’t take your prescribed medicines, follow the exercises recommended in physical therapy, or check-in with your doctor, then you can encounter potential complications. Make sure you give your body the recommended time to heal.