Dr. Deb Kumar Majumder

MBBS, DNB (Orthopaedics)
Fellowship in Shoulder and Sports Injury
Fellowship in Joint Replacement


Knee Arthroscopy


Knee arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that allows doctors to view the knee joint without making a large incision (cut) through the skin and other soft tissues. Arthroscopy is used to diagnose and treat a wide range of knee problems.

Is knee arthroscopy major surgery?

Knee arthroscopy is a very common minimally invasive surgical procedure. Minimally invasive procedures require smaller incisions (cuts) than traditional surgery. The incisions are about the size of a keyhole. Depending on your injury, it can be a manor or minor surgery.


How long is recovery after knee arthroscopy?

Understanding Knee Arthroscopy Recovery Time Generally, patients can expect mild to moderate pain for 2-4 weeks post-op. They can also expect swelling from 3-6 weeks after the procedure. Total recovery can take 2-3 months for most patients. However, be mindful that recovery time varies from patient to patient and also depending on the surgery performed.


Can I walk after knee arthroscopy?

The patient should be able to bear weight on the knee while standing or walking, immediately after surgery. Crutches will be necessary for 14 days after surgery. Rehabilitation to gain full ROM should occur within 1-2 weeks. Heavy work or sports may be restricted for the first 4-6 weeks.


How successful is knee arthroscopy?

The highly advanced procedure has an over 90 percent success rate. Arthroscopy involves the use of smaller incisions and specialized tools to perform the repairs. Arthroscopic knee surgery is a safe procedure, however, there are some risks associated with it.


Is knee arthroscopy painful?

Knee arthroscopy is performed under anesthesia to ensure patient safety and comfort during surgery. Following surgery, it is common for patients to experience some level of mild discomfort as they recover.


Can you climb stairs after arthroscopic knee surgery?

However, until you get your movement (flexion/bend) back in your knee (which could take just a couple of days, or it could take 6+ weeks, depending on what's actually done inside your knee) then you may need to go up stairs slowly, 1 step at a time, and possibly even come down initially on your bottom.


What to avoid after knee arthroscopy?

You may feel dizzy, lightheaded, or sleepy for 24 hours or longer. Do not consume alcohol, drive, operate machinery, or make important personal or business decisions for 24 hours. After a general anesthetic, it is normal to feel generalized aching and sore muscles for 24 hours. Overall, it is very important to follow advice of rehab specialists, unsupervised exercising can be detrimental.


Do you have stitches after knee arthroscopy?

Your post-operative dressing has three layers you need to understand in order to properly care for your knee for the two weeks following surgery. Your two arthroscopic incisions were closed with a single stitch.


When is knee arthroscopy needed?

Common injuries for which knee arthroscopy is recommended include: Meniscus tear. Torn or damaged knee ligament (anterior cruciate ligament or posterior cruciate ligament) Chondral changes, MPFL injury etc.