Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside a joint through small incisions.

During the procedure, a small camera called an arthroscope is inserted into the joint. It provides a clear view of the damaged structures and allows the surgeon to assess and treat the problem using specialised instruments.

It is commonly used for sports injuries, ligament tears, cartilage damage and other conditions affecting the knee and shoulder.

When Should You Consider Arthroscopic Surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery may be considered when a joint injury or condition causes persistent pain, instability or restricted movement and does not improve adequately with non-surgical treatment.

You may need an evaluation if you experience:

  • Persistent joint pain after an injury
  • Swelling or recurring joint inflammation
  • Difficulty bending or straightening the joint
  • A feeling of instability or the joint giving way
  • Locking or catching of the joint
  • Sports-related injuries
  • Ligament or cartilage damage
  • Symptoms that continue despite physiotherapy or other conservative treatments

What Are The Types?

Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine and treat problems inside the knee joint.

Knee Arthroscopy May Be Considered For:

  • Meniscus tears
  • Cartilage damage
  • Loose bodies inside the knee
  • Certain ligament injuries
  • Persistent knee pain following an injury
  • Knee locking or catching
  • Certain sports-related knee injuries

 

Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy helps address injuries affecting the rotator cuff, labrum and other structures responsible for shoulder stability and movement.

Shoulder Arthroscopy May Be Considered For:

  • Rotator cuff injuries
  • Labral tears
  • Shoulder instability
  • Certain cartilage injuries
  • Persistent shoulder pain following an injury
  • Certain sports-related shoulder injuries
  • Problems causing restricted shoulder movement

 

ACL Reconstruction

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is one of the important ligaments that helps keep the knee stable.

An ACL tear can occur during sports, sudden changes in direction, awkward landings or other injuries. It may lead to instability, difficulty with certain activities and a feeling that the knee is giving way.

ACL reconstruction involves replacing the torn ligament with a suitable graft to help restore stability to the knee.

ACL Reconstruction May Be Considered For:

  • Complete ACL tears
  • Knee instability following an ACL injury
  • Sports-related ACL injuries
  • Repeated episodes of the knee giving way
  • Patients who wish to return to physically demanding activities
  • ACL injuries associated with other damage inside the knee

 

Meniscus Surgery

The meniscus is a cushion-like piece of cartilage in the knee that helps absorb shock and contributes to joint stability.

A sudden twist, sports injury or age-related wear can cause the meniscus to tear. Depending on the type, location and extent of the tear, treatment may involve repairing the meniscus or removing only the damaged portion when necessary.

Meniscus Surgery May Be Considered For:

  • Meniscus tears caused by sports injuries
  • Tears associated with twisting injuries
  • Persistent pain and swelling
  • Knee locking or catching
  • Restricted knee movement
  • Tears that do not improve with non-surgical treatment

 

Rotator Cuff Repair

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that helps keep the shoulder stable and allows you to lift and rotate your arm.

A rotator cuff tear can occur due to a sudden injury or gradual wear and tear over time. It may cause pain, weakness and difficulty with overhead movements. Rotator cuff repair involves repairing the torn tendon and securing it back to the appropriate area of the shoulder.

 

Rotator Cuff Repair May Be Considered For:

  • Significant rotator cuff tears
  • Traumatic tendon injuries
  • Persistent shoulder pain and weakness
  • Difficulty lifting or raising the arm
  • Pain that interferes with sleep
  • Tears that have not improved with appropriate non-surgical treatment

What Happens During Arthroscopic Surgery?

Joint replacement surgery is performed under appropriate anaesthesia. The damaged surfaces of the joint are carefully prepared and replaced with specially designed artificial components.

The procedure is planned according to factors such as:

  • The extent of joint damage
  • Bone quality
  • Joint alignment
  • Age and activity level
  • Overall health
  • Individual functional requirements

What Can You Expect After Arthroscopic Surgery?

Recovery after arthroscopic surgery depends on the procedure performed and the extent of the injury.

A structured rehabilitation programme is an important part of recovery and helps restore movement, strength and function.

Depending on your procedure, you may be guided through:

  • Pain and swelling management
  • Early controlled movement
  • Physiotherapy and strengthening exercises
  • Gradual increase in weight-bearing or activity
  • Joint-specific rehabilitation
  • Gradual return to work, daily activities or sports
  • Follow-up consultations to monitor recovery

Benefits of Arthroscopic Surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery offers several potential benefits compared with traditional open procedures in appropriate cases.

Potential benefits include:

  • Smaller incisions
  • Less disruption to surrounding tissues
  • Reduced scarring
  • Treatment of specific problems inside the joint
  • Potentially less post-operative discomfort
  • Earlier mobilisation in suitable cases
  • Structured rehabilitation to help restore joint function

 

The benefits and recovery experience vary depending on the procedure, the severity of the injury and the individual’s overall health.

Are There Any Risks?

Like any surgical procedure, arthroscopic surgery has potential risks and complications.

These may include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding or swelling
  • Blood clots
  • Nerve or blood vessel injury
  • Joint stiffness
  • Persistent pain
  • Damage to surrounding structures
  • Anaesthesia-related complications
  • The possibility of further treatment depending on the condition

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Although arthroscopy is commonly used to treat sports-related injuries, it can also be used for certain degenerative conditions, cartilage problems and other joint conditions that cause persistent symptoms.

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