One of the most experienced joint replacement specialists in Central Florida, Mark Hollmann, MD performs hundreds of arthroscopic procedures each year with minimal post-operative pain. Arthroscopic knee surgery — or “knee scope” — is a minimally invasive medical procedure on the knee joint used to diagnose and treat knee conditions or injuries. Although knee arthroscopy is often needed in our athletic population it can also be useful in older patients in certain cases. Continue reading to learn more about what to expect from arthroscopic knee surgery. 

What is Arthroscopic Knee Surgery?

Arthroscopic knee surgery uses an arthroscope, which is a tiny surgical instrument with a light and camera at the end that is inserted into the knee. Small incisions are made around the knee joint to insert the camera and other small surgical tools. Using the images from the arthroscope as a guide, the surgeon can repair torn ligaments, remove torn or damaged meniscus, remove loose bone fragments, or perform other treatments. 

Why Knee Arthroscopy? 

Knee arthroscopy can be used after conservative measures have failed. 

A doctor may recommend knee arthroscopy if a patient has a painful condition that is not responding to a nonsurgical treatment such as medication, cortisone injection or physical therapy.  Knee arthroscopy is often successful in helping reduce or eliminate pain associated with meniscus cartilage damage. 

Benefits of Knee Arthroscopy

Many doctors and patients prefer knee arthroscopy to other more invasive procedures. Surgeons perform the procedures by making tiny incisions without damaging normal structures around the joint. Because it’s less invasive, there is usually less knee pain, less joint stiffness, and easier recovery than with other procedures. 

Arthroscopic knee surgery is among the most safe and common surgical procedures performed by an orthopedist. If you suffer from joint pain and would like to speak with one of our orthopaedic specialists, request an appointment with Florida Orthopaedic Associates through our online form or call the office to schedule an appointment today.