Knee Arthroscopy Surgery Guide (2026)

What Is Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a surgeon inserts a small camera (arthroscope) and instruments through tiny incisions (5mm) to diagnose and treat knee problems. It is one of the most commonly performed orthopedic procedures, with over 4 million performed worldwide each year. The camera displays images on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to see inside the joint in detail.

What Can Arthroscopy Treat?

• Torn meniscus (repair or removal)
• Torn or damaged ACL/PCL (reconstruction)
• Torn cartilage (debridement or microfracture)
• Loose bone or cartilage fragments
• Inflamed or damaged synovial tissue
• Patellar (kneecap) problems
• Knee infection (washout)
• Evaluation of unexplained knee pain, swelling, or stiffness

Arthroscopy is both diagnostic (seeing inside the joint) and therapeutic (treating what is found).

Cost

Knee arthroscopy costs $3,500 to $15,000 before insurance. It is typically an outpatient procedure (go home same day). Cost depends on what is done during the procedure — simple diagnostic scope is less than meniscus repair or cartilage work.

Recovery

Recovery varies by what is treated during the scope:

• Diagnostic only: 1-2 weeks, immediate weight bearing
• Loose body removal: 1-2 weeks
• Partial meniscectomy: 3-6 weeks
• Meniscus repair: 3-6 months
• Cartilage microfracture: 6-12 weeks restricted weight bearing

Most patients walk the same day and drive within 1-2 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is knee arthroscopy painful?

The procedure is done under anesthesia (general or regional). Post-operative pain is typically mild to moderate and managed with ice, elevation, and over-the-counter pain medications. Most patients describe it as much less painful than they expected.

How long does arthroscopy take?

Usually 30-60 minutes depending on what is found and treated. With prep and recovery, plan for 3-4 hours at the surgery center.

Can I walk after knee arthroscopy?

Most patients walk (with crutches) the same day. For simple procedures, crutches may only be needed for a few days.

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