Knee Arthroscopy Surgery

Living with knee pain can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed by a skilled knee arthroscopy surgeon to diagnose and treat a variety of knee problems. Dr David Sime is one of Melbourne’s leading knee arthroscopy surgeons, who can help you restore your mobility with knee arthroscopy surgery.

What is Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy surgery is a common procedure that allows for the diagnosis and treatment of knee joint problems without the need for large incisions. Using an arthroscope, a small camera inserted through a tiny incision, Dr Sime can assess the internal structures of the knee. This visual access makes it easier to identify issues such as cartilage damage, meniscus tears, or ligament injuries.

Whether you're suffering from a sports injury or chronic knee pain, knee arthroscopy offers a faster recovery and less pain than traditional open surgeries.

Patients who experience persistent knee pain, stiffness, or instability that doesn’t improve with conservative treatments may be candidates for knee arthroscopy surgery. Common conditions treated include meniscal tears, cartilage damage, ligament injuries, and loose bodies in the joint. A consultation with Dr Sime, an experienced knee arthroscopy surgeon, will determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure.


The Knee Arthroscopy Surgery Process

Knee arthroscopy surgery is performed as a day procedure, which means you can usually return home the same day. Here's what to expect:

  1. Consultation and Assessment

Before surgery, Dr Sime conducts a thorough assessment of your knee, including imaging tests like an MRI to diagnose and assess the problem. As a specialist knee arthroscopy orthopaedic surgeon in Melbourne, he will discuss your condition and create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.

  1. Surgical Procedure

During the procedure, Dr Sime makes small incisions around the knee and inserts the arthroscope. The camera allows for a detailed view of the joint, enabling precise diagnosis and treatment. Depending on the condition, Dr Sime may repair damaged tissue, remove loose bodies, or perform meniscus repair surgery.

  1. Post-Surgery Care

After arthroscopic knee surgery, the incisions are closed with stitches, and a bandage is applied. You’ll be given instructions for managing pain and reducing swelling, such as elevating the knee and applying ice. Rehabilitation will begin shortly after surgery, typically within a few days for a smooth recovery.

Recovery After Arthroscopy Knee Surgery

  • Initial Recovery: You may be able to walk with assistance shortly after surgery. Crutches or a knee brace may be recommended for support in the first few days.

  • Rehabilitation: A personalised physiotherapy plan will be created to help restore knee strength, flexibility, and mobility. This process is vital for guaranteeing full recovery and preventing future knee problems.

  • Return to Activity: Depending on the type of procedure performed, most patients can return to daily activities within 4-6 weeks. Athletes or those involved in high-impact sports may require 2-3 months before resuming full activity.

Dr Sime and his team will monitor your progress throughout your recovery to ensure the best possible outcome.

Advantages of Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy surgery provides several key advantages over traditional open surgery. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure involves smaller incisions, which means less tissue damage, reduced pain, and a quicker recovery time. Patients can return to their daily activities much sooner, and the smaller incisions result in minimal scarring. Using a camera during the procedure allows for precise diagnosis and treatment, leading to better outcomes. These benefits make knee arthroscopy Melbourne a preferred option for patients seeking effective, minimally invasive knee treatments with a fast recovery.

Combining Knee Arthroscopy with Other Procedures

In some cases, knee arthroscopy surgery can be combined with other treatments to achieve optimal results, for example:

  • Meniscus Repair Surgery: If a meniscal tear is detected, meniscus repair can often be performed during the same procedure, preserving longer term knee function.

  • ACL Reconstruction: For patients with a torn ACL, ACL reconstruction surgery isperformed using knee arthroscopy.

  • Knee Replacement Surgery: If knee damage is more severe and arthroscopy reveals the need for further intervention, robotic knee replacement surgery may be recommended as the next step.

Take the First Step Towards Pain-Free Mobility

Whether you're dealing with a sports injury or chronic knee pain, knee arthroscopy surgery offers a minimally invasive solution with faster recovery times. Book your consultation today with Dr David Sime, one of Melbourne’s leading knee arthroscopy surgeons, and take the first step towards a pain-free, active life.

Knee Arthroscopy - Frequently Asked Questions

  • Knee arthroscopy surgery is a minimally invasive procedure where a knee arthroscopy surgeon uses a small camera to diagnose and treat knee joint issues. This approach allows for quicker recovery and less pain compared to traditional surgery.

  • Patients with knee pain, swelling, or mobility issues that don’t respond to other treatments may be candidates for arthroscopy knee surgery. Consulting with a knee arthroscopy surgeon in Melbourne can help determine if this procedure is right for you.

  • Recovery from knee arthroscopy surgery typically takes a few weeks. Most patients can return to light activities within a week, but full recovery may take several months depending on the procedure and individual healing.