Sven Putnis, Consultant Knee Surgeon in Bristol, offers expert knee arthroscopy for meniscal tears, cartilage damage, and ligament assessment. Book a consultation.
Knee arthroscopy is a well-established, minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat a wide range of knee joint conditions. Commonly referred to as ‘keyhole surgery’, it allows for the direct visualisation and treatment of all structures within the joint. Rather than requiring a large incision, the technique uses small portals through which a camera and specialised instruments are introduced. This approach allows Sven Putnis to accurately identify the source of your symptoms and, in most cases, address the damage during the same procedure.
Who Is This For?
A knee arthroscopy is performed as a day-case procedure, meaning most patients are able to go home on the same day. The surgery itself routinely takes approximately 30 minutes. More complex meniscus repairs or cartilage procedures take longer.
No. Knee arthroscopy is performed under a general anaesthetic, so you will be asleep throughout.
You can typically return to driving once you are able to perform an emergency stop comfortably and safely, and when you are no longer reliant on crutches. For many patients, this is around two to three weeks following surgery, though this varies depending on the procedure performed. You should have a passenger with you the first time and be sure you are both comfortable that you are safe.
Some discomfort and swelling following the procedure is to be expected. Because the technique is minimally invasive, post-operative pain is generally less significant than with open surgery. Cryotherapy (ice bands or braces), elevation, and appropriate pain relief are commonly used during the initial recovery phase to help manage these symptoms.
Knee arthroscopy is generally considered a safe procedure, and the complication rate is low. As with any surgical intervention, there are small risks, which may include infection, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), persistent swelling, or stiffness. Sven Putnis is extremely thorough in explaining the risks and benefits of surgery in language you will understand.
Recovery Time
2–12 weeks (depending on the specific procedure)
Success Rate
Very high (procedure-dependent)
Book a consultation to discuss if this treatment is right for you.
Book your consultation today and begin your journey to recovery with expert knee care in Bristol.
