Private Keyhole Knee Surgery in London

What You Need to Know

Keyhole knee surgery, also known as knee arthroscopy, is a quick, minimally invasive, day-case surgical procedure to diagnose and treat a variety of knee problems. This advanced surgical procedure uses a small camera, a 4K HD wide screen monitor and specialised fine tools to address issues within the knee joint and is seen as an effective alternative to open knee surgery for many patients.

What Is Arthroscopic Knee Surgery?

Arthroscopic knee surgery involves making small cuts around the knee to insert a tiny camera called an arthroscope. This allows the orthopaedic surgeon to view high-definition images of the joint and perform precise treatments using specialised surgical tools. It is considered a type of keyhole surgery, widely known for its shorter recovery times and reduced risks compared to traditional methods.

Who Can Benefit from Keyhole Knee Surgery?

Patients experiencing persistent knee pain, stiffness or swelling due to injuries or conditions like osteoarthritis may benefit from this procedure. Most benefit is gained from those sustaining knee injuries to structures within the joint such as meniscus body, meniscus root, articular cartilage, Hoffa’s fat pad and knee ligaments (ACL).

Other common issues treated through knee keyhole surgery include:

Damaged cartilage

Loose bone or cartilage fragments

Fluid buildup in the joint due to knee pathology

Inflammation of the lining of the knee or scar tissue build-up in the knee.

Your surgeon will determine if this approach suits your condition after a thorough evaluation.

Advantages of Keyhole Surgery

Knee arthroscopy offers numerous benefits over traditional surgery, including:

Smaller incisions and minimal scarring

Less pain after the operation

Faster recovery and return to daily activities

Reduced risk of infection

Most patients can go home the same day

By using minimally invasive techniques that require only small incisions, keyhole surgery reduces trauma to the surrounding tissues, often resulting in less postoperative pain, reduced scarring and a lower risk of complications.

These benefits contribute to a more comfortable recovery, with patients typically returning to daily activities more quickly compared to traditional open surgical methods.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The surgical procedure is typically performed under a general anaesthetic, although a local anaesthetic may be used for less complex cases. During the operation:

Small incisions are made around the knee.

Sterile fluid is pumped into the joint for a clearer view.

The arthroscope is inserted to examine the kneecap, cartilage and other structures.

Surgical instruments are used to treat the issue, such as repairing damaged tissues or removing loose fragments.

Local anaesthetic, hyaluronic acid lubricant and painkillers are injected into the knee before closure of the wounds to minimise any pain afterwards.

The entire operation usually lasts about 15 minutes to an hour, and most patients can return home the same day.

Recovery: Physiotherapy and Aftercare

Recovery times vary depending on the procedure and individual circumstances. Most patients can resume light activities within a few weeks, while high-impact activities may require several months of rehabilitation.

Days after surgery:

You may experience swelling and stiffness. Using a knee support, ice therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication and resting the joint can help. You need to keep the waterproof wound dressings dry for 2 weeks till the stitches are removed by your surgical team. Many patients use cling film wrap when showering or purchase a waterproof knee cover online.

Weeks after surgery:

Physical therapy becomes crucial to regain mobility and strength in the leg muscles including the gluteus medius, quadriceps and hamstring muscle groups.

Long-term care:

Avoiding strenuous activities during early recovery (normally the first 8 weeks) can prevent complications from keyhole surgery.

A dedicated physiotherapy team supports patients through a rapid recovery pathway tailored to individual needs.

Risks and Potential Complications

Although arthroscopic surgery is safe, it carries some risks with a 1% chance of occuring:

Temporary swelling or bruising

Discomfort and knee stiffness

Infection

Nerve injury

Deep vein thrombosis (blood clot)

Your orthopaedic surgeon will discuss all potential risks before the surgical procedure to ensure you are fully informed.

Why Choose Private Arthroscopic Knee Surgery?

Private hospital care for keyhole knee surgery provides faster access to treatment, personalised care and state-of-the-art facilities. At The West London Knee and Hip Clinic, our experienced orthopaedic surgeons have world class international training from London, Sydney and Barcelona and use the latest, evidence-based advanced techniques and equipment to deliver exceptional outcomes. They are continually striving to improve and do better to ensure the best outcomes possible.

Whether you’re dealing with knee problems caused by a sports injury, arthritis or any other condition that causes knee pain, knee locking or knee stiffness, keyhole surgery can be a highly effective and safe option for restoring your joint health.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward a pain-free life, schedule a consultation with our team today.

We’ll help you explore your options and create a personalised treatment plan unique to you.