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