Knee arthroscopy: cost, NHS wait & what to expect

Overview

Knee arthroscopy is keyhole surgery used to look inside the knee joint and treat problems such as torn cartilage (meniscus), loose fragments, or a damaged joint surface. A surgeon makes small cuts and passes a thin camera (arthroscope) into the joint.

Why it's done

• Persistent knee pain, locking or swelling not settling with physiotherapy
• A suspected meniscal (cartilage) tear
• Removing loose bodies or trimming damaged cartilage

What happens

Usually done as a day case under general or spinal anaesthetic. The surgeon inspects the joint and repairs or trims tissue as needed. Most people go home the same day.

Recovery

• Walking with support within a day or two for many people
• Driving often after 1–2 weeks (check with your surgeon and insurer)
• Physiotherapy is important; fuller recovery over 6 weeks for simple procedures

Risks & things to consider

• Infection (uncommon)
• Blood clots (DVT)
• Stiffness or ongoing pain in some cases
• Anaesthetic risks

Alternatives

• Physiotherapy and exercise
• Pain relief and activity changes
• Steroid injections
• In some cases, no treatment

Questions to ask your provider

• Is keyhole surgery likely to help my specific problem?
• What does the all-in self-pay price include (consultant, anaesthetist, hospital, follow-up)?
• How many of these does the consultant do each year?
• What's the plan if it doesn't fully resolve my symptoms?