Knee Arthroscopy A Minimally Invasive Procedure for Joint Pain Relief

If knee issues have been keeping you from enjoying your favorite activities, knee arthroscopy in Glasgow can help. This procedure is performed on thousands of patients every year and involves the use of a small camera called an arthroscope, which is inserted into the knee joint through a small incision. The camera allows the surgeon to see inside the knee joint and diagnose any problems that may be present. This procedure can be used to treat a wide range of knee problems, including torn ligaments, cartilage damage, and meniscal tears and is typically performed on an outpatient basis, which means that you can go home the same day as the surgery. If you’d like to learn more about knee arthroscopy, reach out to Elanic Medical and set up your consultation today. We’ve been working hard to change the game when it comes to offering patients timely and convenient healthcare, and we’re excited to learn more about how we can help you truly live your life to the fullest.

Overview of Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows a surgeon to visualise, diagnose, and treat problems inside the knee joint. The procedure involves making small incisions in the knee and inserting a tiny camera called an arthroscope, which is connected to a video monitor, allowing your surgeon to see inside the knee joint and identify any problems. Knee arthroscopy is performed for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Repair or removal of torn meniscus
  • Removal of loose pieces of bone or cartilage
  • Repair of damaged ligaments or tendons
  • Removal of inflamed synovial tissue
  • Treatment of knee fractures

Meet Our Consultants

Rahul Kakar FRCS, MRCS, MBBS

Mr Kakar is a highly skilled consultant orthopaedic surgeon specialising in knee and hip surgeries, including ACL reconstruction, meniscal repairs, patellar dislocations, and hip replacements. With advanced fellowship training and leadership as the governance lead at NHS Tayside, he focuses on enhanced recovery protocols, often enabling patients to return home within a day. Rahul is dedicated to education, training, and achieving exceptional outcomes through routine audits and patient-centered care.

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Michael Brown MBChB FRCS (Tr Orth)

Mr Brown is a highly regarded knee surgeon, recognised for his exceptional expertise in treating both sports-related injuries and degenerative knee conditions. Dedicated to providing comprehensive care, Mr. Brown offers a wide range of surgical solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. With a strong focus on patient-centered care, he emphasises collaborative decision-making to ensure the most effective treatment plans and optimal outcomes.

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Colin Drury FRCSEd (Tr+Orth)

Mr Drury FRCSEd (Tr+Orth) is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in knee surgery. His expertise includes knee replacement, sports injury treatment, arthroscopy, osteotomy, and non-surgical therapies like physiotherapy, injections, and PRP. At Glasgow Royal Infirmary, he also manages complex trauma, infections, and collaborates with plastic surgeons for multi-disciplinary care.

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Tom Nunn MD

Fellowship trained in sports injury surgery Mr Nunn has spent over a decade specialising in the treatment of knee problems and in arthroscopic knee surgery specifically. He has a particular interest in meniscal preservation, ligament reconstruction and chondral (joint surface) injury and degenerative change in arthritis.

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Andrew MacDonald MB ChB, FRCS (Tr&Orth)

Mr MacDonald is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with over 23 years of experience, specialising in hip and knee replacement surgeries, including complex and revision cases. After training in Scotland, Cambridge, and Australia, he has served as a consultant in NHS Lanarkshire since 2011 and practices privately at Ross Hall Hospital in Glasgow. A passionate educator, he has won 'Trainer of the Year' and teaches for the AO Foundation, a global leader in surgical innovation.

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Preparing for Knee Arthroscopy

Before undergoing knee ligament repair in Glasgow, you will need to undergo a thorough medical evaluation which may include a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans. The purpose of the medical evaluation is to ensure that you are healthy enough to undergo the procedure and to identify any potential risks or complications.

You’ll need to inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are currently taking, as some medications and supplements may need to be stopped or adjusted prior to the procedure. This may include blood-thinning medications such as aspirin or warfarin, as well as herbal supplements such as ginkgo biloba or garlic.

Your Knee Arthroscopy Procedure

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that is usually performed on an outpatient basis, which means you can go home to rest and recover the same day as your procedure. During the surgery, your practitioner will make a small incision in your knee and insert the arthroscope. The arthroscope will be connected to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to see the inside of your knee joint. The surgeon will then use specialised instruments to repair any damage to the knee, such as torn cartilage or ligaments, according to your bespoke surgical plan. During your preoperative consultation, your surgeon will explain the techniques used for your surgery in-depth, giving you a clear idea of what you can expect from the procedure.

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Your Recovery and Rehabilitation

After a knee arthroscopy, you can expect to experience some pain and swelling. Your recovery time will vary depending on the extent of the procedure and your overall health. In general, you can expect to take a few days off work and avoid strenuous activity for several weeks.

During the first few days after your procedure, you’ll want to be sure to rest and elevate your leg to help reduce swelling. You may also need to use crutches to help you get around. Pain medication may be prescribed to help manage any discomfort.

Returning to Normal Activities

Patients can usually return to normal activities, such as walking and light exercise, within a few weeks after knee arthroscopy in Glasgow. However, you should avoid any activities that put stress on the knee, such as running or jumping, for several weeks or months.

You should also avoid driving until you are no longer taking pain medication and feel comfortable operating a vehicle. It's important to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding when it is safe to return to work and other activities.

If you’d like to learn more about knee arthroscopy or the other sports medicine options we offer here at Elanic Medical, a member of our team is standing by and ready to help. Reach out to our Glasgow offices and set up your consultation today.

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