Trusted Knee Arthroscopy Treatment
Knee Pain Doesn't Have to Hold You Back
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera, called an arthroscope, to look inside the knee joint and diagnose or repair damage without a large incision, treating everything from torn cartilage to ligament injuries with less downtime than open surgery.
At HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care, Dr. Stuart Springer brings more than 40 years of experience as a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in arthroscopic surgery. He takes the time to understand each patient's goals before recommending a treatment plan, and patients recovering from a sports injury, a workplace accident, auto accident, or another form of personal injury can count on that same thorough evaluation.
If knee pain, swelling, or instability is holding you back, request an appointment with HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care today.
What to Expect from Knee Arthroscopy Surgery
Understanding the Procedure and Recovery
Knee arthroscopy is one of several arthroscopic procedures offered at HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care, alongside similar treatments for the hip, shoulder, and ankle.
What Knee Arthroscopy Can Treat
Knee arthroscopy can diagnose and treat several common sources of joint pain and instability, including:
- Torn meniscus cartilage
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tears
- Loose fragments of bone or cartilage
- Synovitis, or inflammation of the joint lining
- Certain fractures around the knee
How the Procedure Works
The surgeon makes a few small incisions around the knee. The arthroscope goes in through one incision to give a clear, magnified view of the joint, while small instruments work through the others to repair or remove damaged tissue. Most patients go home the same day.
What Recovery Looks Like
Recovery unfolds in stages, and most patients move through them like this:
- Right After Surgery: Many patients begin walking with support shortly after the procedure.
- First Few Weeks: Light activity often resumes within a few weeks, depending on the extent of the repair.
- Longer Term: Physical therapy is often recommended to rebuild strength and range of motion, especially after ligament repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions can knee arthroscopy treat?
Knee arthroscopy can diagnose and treat a wide range of joint problems, including torn meniscus cartilage, ACL or PCL tears, loose bone or cartilage fragments, and swelling of the joint lining known as synovitis. It's also used to remove damaged cartilage or repair certain fractures around the knee. Because the procedure allows direct visualization of the joint, it gives your provider a precise understanding of the issue, which often leads to a more targeted and effective treatment plan than relying on imaging alone.
How long does it take to recover from knee arthroscopy surgery?
Recovery time depends on the type of repair performed, but most patients can expect a few weeks before returning to normal daily activities. Simple procedures, like removing loose cartilage, often allow for a quicker recovery, while ligament reconstructions may take several months of physical therapy to regain full strength. Your provider will walk you through a personalized recovery timeline, including when it's safe to resume driving, working, and physical activity, based on your specific procedure and overall health.
What happens during my consultation for knee arthroscopy?
Most patients come to us already diagnosed with a meniscus tear, ligament injury, or other joint damage, often after other treatment hasn't provided lasting relief. During your consultation, Dr. Springer reviews your imaging and treatment history to confirm the right surgical approach for your specific injury, so you know exactly what to expect heading into surgery and recovery.
Will transportation be provided on the day of my surgery?
Yes. The surgical center provides transportation to and from the center on the day of your surgery, so you don't have to worry about driving or finding parking. New York and New Jersey both require a companion to accompany you on the day of surgery, and this service helps take care of that requirement too, which is often a relief for patients who don't have someone available to drive them.
Why should I choose HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care for knee arthroscopy near me?
Choosing the right surgeon for knee arthroscopy makes a real difference in your recovery and long-term joint health. At HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care, Dr. Springer brings more than 40 years of experience as a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, with a focus on arthroscopic surgery for the hip, shoulder, and ankle as well as the knee.
We also work closely with patients recovering from sports injuries, workplace accidents, and other personal injury cases, so you can count on experienced, attentive care no matter how your injury happened.