Knee arthroscopy is a procedure in which a small camera is inserted in to the knee joint and specialized tools are used to improve and correct various conditions. Arthroscopy stems from Greek words arthro- “joint” and –scopy “to look” literally meaning to look within a joint. Arthroscopy is a popular form of treatment because it lends itself to faster recovery times and smaller incisions.
You may need this procedure to correct ACL tears, Meniscal tears, or Cartilage defects.
- Meniscal Tears
The knee joint has a medial (inside) and lateral (outside) meniscus. These act as a “shock absorber” between the femur and tibia. Commonly, but not always, these can be torn by a sudden twisting of the knee. The majority of meniscal tears cannot heal if left alone, therefore, most require arthroscopic surgery to remove the diseased portion.
- ACL Tears
The ACL, or Anterior Cruciate Ligament, is a commonly torn ligament in the knee. It aids in stability of the knee, especially with pivot-shifting activities. An ACL tear can come from a sudden blow to the knee, but in many cases can be caused without any contact.
For further information about certain conditions, please visit Orthoinfo.org