After your anaesthetic has been administered, you’ll either be unconscious (general anaesthetic) or very drowsy (regional anaesthetic with IV sedation).
A tourniquet is applied to your thigh and your leg is painted with antiseptic. Your body is covered with sterile drapes, leaving your knee exposed.
Two or three small incisions are made at the side of the knee. An arthroscope (long tubular instrument with a fibre-optic camera on the tip) is inserted through one hole so the surgeon can see the extent of the problem.
Special tools (such as scissors or lasers) are then inserted through the other hole and used to repair or remove and replace any damaged tissue. The joint is then washed out with sterile fluid and closed.
Once the surgery is finished, the wound is bandaged and you’re taken to the recovery room where your vital signs (blood pressure, pulse and breathing) are monitored to ensure they’re stable.
Once you’re awake and alert, you’ll be transferred to the ward or allowed to go home.
Important information
Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.