Knee pain can be frustrating, limiting, and even debilitating—but not every knee issue requires a major surgery to find relief. If you’re experiencing persistent knee discomfort and are looking for solutions that don’t involve long recovery times or invasive procedures, knee arthroscopy might be the answer.
At the Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson, we offer minimally invasive orthopedic procedures that are tailored to each patient’s needs, helping you return to an active lifestyle—without the stress of major surgery.
What Is Knee Arthroscopy?
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside the knee joint. Instead of large incisions, surgeons make small cuts and use a tiny camera (arthroscope) to view the joint on a screen. Specialized instruments are then used to treat the issue with precision.
Because it’s less invasive, this procedure offers several benefits compared to traditional open surgery.
Common Conditions Treated with Knee Arthroscopy
Knee arthroscopy is ideal for treating a range of conditions, including:
- Meniscus tears
- Cartilage damage
- Inflammation or synovitis
- Loose bone or cartilage fragments
- Knee alignment issues
- Unexplained chronic pain that needs further diagnosis
Benefits of Knee Arthroscopy
Many patients choose arthroscopy because it offers a faster and more comfortable recovery compared to traditional surgery. Benefits include:
- Minimally invasive — smaller incisions mean less trauma to surrounding tissue
- Faster recovery — most patients return to daily activities sooner
- Less pain and swelling after surgery
- Lower risk of complications
- Outpatient procedure — you can often go home the same day
Is Knee Arthroscopy Right for You?
You might be a good candidate for knee arthroscopy if:
- You’ve tried physical therapy or medications without relief
- Your knee pain is impacting your daily life
- Imaging (like MRI or X-rays) shows damage to cartilage, meniscus, or other structures
- You’re looking for a less invasive alternative to major knee surgery
At OIHNV, our board-certified orthopedic specialists will carefully evaluate your symptoms and imaging to determine whether knee arthroscopy is your best path forward.
Why Choose Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson?
At OIHNV, we combine advanced technology with personalized care to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. Our team has extensive experience in minimally invasive orthopedic procedures, and we are committed to helping you achieve lasting pain relief and improved mobility.
FAQs
Knee arthroscopy is generally well-tolerated. It’s performed under anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Some discomfort and swelling afterward is normal, but typically far less than with traditional knee surgery.
Most patients can return to light activities within a few days and resume normal activities in 4–6 weeks. Full recovery depends on the extent of the knee issue and your overall health.
Knee arthroscopy may help manage certain symptoms of arthritis, such as loose cartilage or inflammation. However, it is not a cure for advanced arthritis. Your orthopedic specialist will help determine the best course of treatment based on your condition.
Yes, physical therapy is usually recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and function in the knee. Your doctor will create a personalized rehab plan for your recovery.
In most cases, knee arthroscopy is covered by insurance if deemed medically necessary. It’s best to check with your provider and our office staff to confirm coverage details.
Conclusion
Knee pain doesn’t always mean you’re headed straight for major surgery. Knee arthroscopy offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive alternative for many common knee conditions—from meniscus tears to cartilage damage. With quicker recovery times, less postoperative pain, and fewer complications, it’s a modern solution that can help you get back on your feet—fast.
At the Orthopaedic Institute of Henderson, we’re here to guide you toward the treatment that fits your needs and lifestyle. If you’re ready to take the next step toward relief without the risks of traditional surgery, our expert orthopedic team is here to help.
