Arthroscopy has revolutionized the treatment of knee injuries. Using two small incisions on either side of the kneecap tendon the surgeon can treat tears of the cartilage, remove bone chips, smooth arthritis and reconstruct the ligaments of the knee. These procedures are performed as day surgery.

The cartilage, also known as the meniscus, is a small pad that is interposed between the femur (thighbone) and the tibia (shinbone). It functions to improve the contact between the two bones, to enhance the stability between the two surfaces, and to aid in directing the motion of the knee. If the tears are small then simple trimming of the cartilage is indicated. However, if the tears are bigger then they can be treated with intricate, suturing and fixation techniques. The physicians at Sports Medicine North are fellowship trained in performing these techniques.

Ligament injuries of the knee occur quite frequently. It is estimated that over 200,000 anterior cruciate ligament injuries occur each year. Reconstruction of these ligaments has been revolutionized with the advent of the arthroscope. The physicians at SMN utilize the patient's own tissues, such as a part of the patellar tendon or two of the hamstring tendons, to reconstruct the ligaments. Occasionally, allograft tissues (donated from a cadaver) can also be used. The rehabilitation of the knee after ligament reconstruction surgery is individualized but the goal is return of function and return to sport as soon as possible.

Arthroscopy
Your doctor may first use an arthroscope and surgical tools to find and treat any other injuries, such as a torn meniscus. Then small holes are drilled in your bone.

Placement of the Graft
The graft will be passed through the drilled holes to replace the ligament that was torn.

Fastening the Graft
The graft is fixed in place with screws, staples, or a special type of button. Then your incisions are closed.