Performed by Dr. Hari Prakash at Dr Hariprakash
Arthroscopic knee surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a thin tube with a camera (arthroscope) and small instruments inserted through tiny incisions. It allows the surgeon to see inside the knee joint on a screen and treat problems like torn cartilage, damaged ligaments, or inflamed tissue. Dr Hariprakash performs this procedure to help diagnose and address various knee conditions.
We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.
A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
The anaesthetist administers spinal or general anaesthesia so you feel no pain during the procedure. A tourniquet may be placed on the thigh to reduce bleeding.
Two to four small incisions, each about the size of a buttonhole, are made around the knee joint.
The arthroscope, a thin tube with a camera and light, is inserted through one incision. Images from inside the joint appear on a monitor.
Sterile fluid flows through the joint to expand the space and improve visibility. Surgical instruments are inserted through other incisions to repair or remove damaged tissue.
The instruments are removed, fluid is drained, and the small incisions are closed with stitches or adhesive strips. A bandage is applied.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr Hariprakash reviews your medical history, examines your knee, and discusses your imaging results to plan the appropriate approach for your specific condition.
Using the arthroscope, Dr Hariprakash examines the joint structures and performs the necessary repair, such as trimming torn meniscus, removing loose fragments, or addressing ligament or cartilage issues.
After the procedure, you are monitored in the recovery area until the anaesthesia wears off and you can safely go home with your escort.
Dr Hariprakash provides specific instructions for wound care, activity modification, and physiotherapy, with scheduled follow-up visits to monitor healing and progress.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
The first few days focus on rest, ice application, elevation, and gentle movement as instructed. Pain medication helps manage discomfort. Timelines vary; follow your individual instructions.
Within the first two weeks, physiotherapy begins with exercises to restore range of motion and strengthen muscles around the knee. Weight-bearing increases gradually based on what was done during surgery.
From weeks three to six and beyond, exercises become more challenging to rebuild strength, balance, and function. Return to activities depends on the type of repair performed and individual healing.
Many patients experience reduced knee pain after addressing mechanical problems like torn meniscus or loose fragments. However, arthroscopy does not reverse underlying arthritis or guarantee complete pain relief.
The procedure may help restore knee movement and stability, allowing return to daily activities and sports. Results depend on the severity of damage and the quality of rehabilitation.
Arthroscopy provides direct visualization of joint structures, helping confirm diagnoses when scans are unclear. This guides further treatment decisions.
When cartilage wear or arthritis is extensive, arthroscopy may provide limited benefit. Alternative treatments or joint replacement may be needed in these cases.
The right choice depends on your diagnosis, risks and circumstances — discussed with you at your consultation.
Physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medication, activity modification, and injections may be tried first for many knee problems. Surgery is considered when non-surgical approaches do not provide adequate relief.
Some complex injuries or reconstruction procedures require traditional open surgery with a larger incision for better access. The choice depends on the type and extent of damage, weighed against recovery time and risks.
When arthritis is severe and joint surfaces are extensively damaged, knee replacement may be more appropriate than arthroscopy. This decision is based on age, activity level, symptoms, and degree of cartilage loss.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about arthroscopic surgeries - knee.
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