Knee Surgery

Knee Surgery refers to a variety of surgical procedures performed to treat injuries, arthritis, deformities, and other conditions affecting the knee joint. The type of surgery depends on the specific problem, severity, and patient factors like age, activity level, and overall health.

🦵 Types of Knee Surgery

1. Arthroscopic Knee Surgery (Minimally Invasive)

Used for:

Meniscus tears

ACL or PCL injuries

Loose bodies

Cartilage damage

Synovial inflammation

Recovery: 2–6 weeks depending on procedure

2. Meniscus Surgery

Options:

Meniscectomy (removal of torn part)

Meniscus repair (suturing the tear)

Recovery: Meniscectomy: 2–4 weeks; Repair: 3–4 months

3. ACL Reconstruction

Used for: Torn anterior cruciate ligament (common in athletes)

Graft options: Hamstring, patellar tendon, or donor tissue

Recovery: 6–9 months with physical therapy

4. Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

Used for: Severe arthritis or knee joint damage

Replaces: Entire joint with metal and plastic components

Recovery: 3–6 months (may take up to 12 months for full strength)

5. Partial Knee Replacement

Used for: Arthritis in only one compartment of the knee

Less invasive than TKR

Recovery: 1–3 months

6. Osteotomy

Used for: Realigns the knee by cutting and repositioning bone

Good for: Younger patients with early arthritis on one side

Goal: Delay or prevent total knee replacement

7. Cartilage Restoration Surgery

Types: Microfracture, autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), osteochondral grafts

Used in: Younger patients with isolated cartilage defects

✅ Common Reasons for Knee Surgery

Torn ligaments (ACL, PCL, MCL)

Meniscal tears

Knee arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid)

Patellar instability

Fractures

Cartilage loss or damage

Knee deformities (bow-legged or knock-kneed)

⏱️ Typical Recovery Timeline (By Procedure)

Surgery Type Return to Daily Activities Full Recovery

Arthroscopy 1–3 weeks 4–6 weeks

ACL Reconstruction 1–2 months 6–9 months

Meniscus Repair 4–6 weeks (non-weightbearing) 3–4 months

Total Knee Replacement 4–6 weeks 3–6 months

Partial Knee Replacement 2–3 weeks 1–3 months

Osteotomy 2–3 months 6–12 months

⚠️ Risks of Knee Surgery

Infection

Blood clots (DVT/PE)

Nerve or blood vessel injury

Stiffness or limited mobility

Implant wear or failure (in replacements)

Need for revision surgery

🧑‍⚕️ Aftercare & Rehab

Physical therapy: Crucial for regaining motion and strength

Pain management: Medications, ice, and rest

Mobility aids: Crutches, walker, or brace as needed

Gradual return to activities: Avoid impact sports until cleared

🩻 Imaging & Diagnosis Before Surgery

X-rays: For arthritis, deformity, or fractures

MRI: Best for soft tissue injuries (ligaments, meniscus, cartilage)

CT scan or bone scan: Sometimes used in complex cases