About Knee Arthroscopy

A Minimally Invasive Approach to Knee Surgery

Your knee joint experiences a lot of wear and tear, which can result in a number of conditions. When physical therapy and other options don’t bring you relief, you may want to explore minimally invasive knee surgery. Knee arthroscopy can be used to either diagnose or repair issues in your joint. Using an arthroscope – a small camera – your miVIP surgeon will be able to see the inside of your knee without making a large incision.

If you are suffering from any of the following conditions, you may be a good candidate for this procedure:

• Knee fractures
• Torn meniscus or anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or posterior cruciate ligament
• Inflamed or damaged joint lining
• Misaligned kneecap (patella)
• Broken cartilage in the joint
• Removal of a Baker’s cyst, which is swelling behind the knee

How Does Knee Arthroscopy Work?

You will likely be placed under general anesthesia for your procedure, though your surgeon may choose to use spinal anesthesia or an epidural, preventing you from feeling anything during your surgery. During knee arthroscopy, your surgeon will make a small incision in your knee and insert a camera to view the joint and any damage.

Depending on your condition, your doctor can then repair any issues in the knee joint using small instruments through long, thin tubes. If the surgery is being used to diagnose issues, you will discuss options with your doctor after the procedure. You will receive stitches over the cuts and they will be covered with a dressing.

The Surgeons at miVIP

Nearly 1 million people have knee arthroscopy every year. Our miVIP surgeons are all board-certified, making them highly qualified to perform your knee surgery. They will be able to repair your issues during your hour-long procedure, or they will discuss further options with you afterward.

Your Recovery After Knee Surgery

Minimally invasive knee surgery is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning you will be able to go home the same day as your surgery. Your knee will remain bandaged, and you may apply ice to cope with any discomfort or swelling. Your doctor may also prescribe pain medicine to reduce symptoms. The bandage should stay in place until any physical therapy appointment you may have, usually within a few days of your surgery. You will need to use crutches to walk to avoid putting stress on your knee while it is healing. Get plenty of rest, elevating your knee higher than your heart to avoid excessive swelling. Most patients are able to return to work within a week of the operation, but it may take six to eight weeks to resume regular physical activity.

Cost of Surgery

Your expenses for arthroscopic knee surgery will largely depend on your insurance provider. Consult with your carrier about the procedure to determine what is covered. Our miVIP offices accept most insurance.

Long-Term Effects and Other Information

Following your surgery, it is important to monitor any symptoms that seem out of the norm. Call your physician if you experience excessive drainage, fever, pain or swelling in your calf or trouble breathing.

Take a step toward better knee health by exploring arthroscopic surgery. Call our miVIP team to schedule your consultation today: 855-496-4847.