Treatments
Arthroscopy and Meniscal Surgery
Modern, minimally invasive knee arthroscopy to diagnose and treat a range of knee conditions, with a strong focus on preserving the meniscus whenever possible.
Knee arthroscopy
What is knee arthroscopy?
Knee arthroscopy is a keyhole surgical technique that allows me to look inside your knee joint with a small camera and treat problems through tiny incisions. It is performed as daycase surgery, meaning you can go home the same day.
The procedure is used to diagnose and treat a wide range of knee conditions including meniscal tears, cartilage damage, loose bodies, and inflammatory conditions. Because it is minimally invasive, recovery is generally quicker than with open surgery.
Daycase surgery
You will arrive and leave on the same day. The procedure is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia, and you will be able to weight bear as soon as you feel comfortable.
Minimal scarring
Only two or three small incisions are needed, resulting in minimal scarring and a lower risk of infection compared to open surgery.
Meniscal surgery
Meniscal tears
The meniscus is a c-shaped cartilage that acts as a shock absorber in your knee. Tears are common, especially in sporting injuries, and can cause pain, swelling, catching and locking of the knee.
Whenever it is in the best interests of the patient, I will always try to repair the meniscus rather than remove it. Preserving the meniscus helps protect the cartilage and reduces the risk of developing arthritis in the long term. The decision to repair or partially remove (trim) the torn portion depends on the type and location of the tear, your age, and your activity level.
Meniscal repair
Suturing the tear back together, preserving the meniscus and its protective function for the knee joint. This is preferred whenever the tear is suitable for repair.
Partial meniscectomy
When repair is not possible, only the damaged portion is carefully trimmed, leaving the healthy meniscus tissue intact to continue protecting the joint.
Recovery
What to expect after surgery
Recovery from knee arthroscopy is usually straightforward. You will be encouraged to move your knee as soon as you feel comfortable and to gradually increase your activity levels. Most patients return to desk work within a few days and driving once they can safely perform an emergency stop. Return to sport depends on the procedure performed and will be discussed at your follow-up appointment.