Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Arthroscopic knee surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique that allows orthopedic surgeons to diagnose and treat joint problems through tiny incisions (typically 4-5mm). Using an arthroscope – a pencil-sized instrument with a high-definition camera – surgeons can visualize, diagnose, and repair damaged knee structures with remarkable precision.

When is it Recommended?

✔ Meniscal tears (medial/lateral meniscus)
✔ ACL/PCL ligament injuries
✔ Cartilage defects (chondral lesions)
✔ Loose body removal (bone/cartilage fragments)
✔ Synovitis treatment (inflamed joint lining)
✔ Early-stage arthritis management

Key Benefits of Arthroscopy

✅ Minimal scarring (3-4 tiny incisions)
✅ Accurate diagnosis with magnified visualization
✅ Less postoperative pain than open surgery
✅ Outpatient procedure (usually same-day discharge)
✅ Faster recovery and rehabilitation
✅ Lower infection risk (1% vs 3-5% in open procedures)

The Surgical Procedure

  1. Preoperative Preparation

    • Physical exam and MRI imaging

    • Blood tests and medical clearance

    • Fasting for 8 hours prior

  2. During Surgery

    • General or spinal anesthesia

    • Sterile draping and positioning

    • 2-3 small portal incisions

    • Joint distension with saline solution

    • Systematic joint examination

    • Targeted repair of damaged structures

  3. Postoperative Care

    • Sterile dressing application

    • Cryotherapy for swelling control

    • Pain management protocol

    • Early mobilization guidelines

Recovery Timeline

First 48 Hours

  • Weight-bearing as tolerated with crutches

  • Regular icing (20min every 2 hours)

  • Elevation to reduce swelling

Week 1-2

  • Gradual range-of-motion exercises

  • Transition off crutches (if stable)

  • Wound care and stitch removal

Weeks 3-6

  • Progressive strengthening program

  • Low-impact activities (cycling, swimming)

  • Return to desk work

Months 2-3

  • Sport-specific training

  • Gradual return to athletic activities

  • Continued proprioceptive exercises

Potential Complications

⚠ Deep vein thrombosis (0.5% risk)
⚠ Joint stiffness (requires prompt PT)
⚠ Persistent swelling (may need aspiration)
⚠ Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (rare)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How painful is the recovery?
A: Most patients report 3-4/10 pain, well-controlled with prescribed medications.

Q: When can I drive?
A: Typically 1-2 weeks post-op, once off narcotics and with good leg control.

Q: Will I need physical therapy?
A: Yes, customized PT is crucial for optimal recovery – usually 2-3x/week for 6-12 weeks.

Q: How soon can I return to sports?
A: Depends on the procedure – meniscectomy (4-6 weeks), ACL reconstruction (6-9 months).

Q: Are the results permanent?
A: While arthroscopy addresses current damage, future degeneration depends on activity modification and joint preservation strategies.

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Farideh Najafi

Farideh Najafi

Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Farideh Najafi is a distinguished orthopedic surgeon based in Isfahan and one of the few women in Iran to […]

Iran, Isfahan
Ali Jahansouz

Ali Jahansouz

Knee Surgeon

Meet Dr. Ali Jahansouz: Knee Specialist in Tehran Credentials & Training 🔹 Orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee surgery & joint replacement […]

Iran, Tehran
Hossein Farahini

Hossein Farahini

Knee Surgeon

Dr. Hossein Farahini is a prominent orthopedic surgeon based in Tehran, Iran, with a distinguished academic and professional background. He […]

Iran, Tehran
Iman Qomashi

Iman Qomashi

Knee Surgeon

Dr. Iman Qomashi is a highly skilled orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee joint surgery and sports injury treatment. He graduated […]

Iran, Tehran
Mahmoud Jafarbegloo

Mahmoud Jafarbegloo

Musculoskeletal Oncology

Dr. Mahmoud Jafarbegloo is a distinguished orthopedic surgeon in Tehran specializing in bone and joint surgery, with particular expertise in musculoskeletal tumor surgery and complex joint replacements. […]

Iran, Tehran
Alireza Amin Javaheri

Alireza Amin Javaheri

Hip Surgeon

Dr. Alireza Amin Javaheri is a renowned orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement. He completed his medical training […]

Mohammad Ali Hatamian

Mohammad Ali Hatamian

Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Mohammad Ali Hatamian is a renowned orthopedic surgeon in Tehran, Iran, with 23+ years of experience in bone, joint, and trauma surgery. Recognized by the Iranian […]

Iran, Tehran