Arthroscopy of the knee

Basic Science and Articular Cartilage Healing Articular cartilage has no blood supply and no nerve supply. Chondrocytes (articular cartilage cells) obtain their nutrition from the synovial fluid while the underlying bone provides nutrition to the deeper layers. Chondrocytes function to produce the extracellular matrix and work hard to produce proteoglycans. Collagen fibres turn over less…

The operation is performed when there is early wear in one side of the knee in order to slow down the wear and to ‘buy time’ for the knee. It is also performed in certain ligament injuries where instability of the knee is associated with bowing of the leg.

The pathway includes the following general overall principles. It is accepted that not all patients with a knee problem require to be seen in secondary care to determine management. With appropriate specified indications some patients can be directed to initial treatment with options such as podiatry, physiotherapy and orthotics. At any time the pathway can…

Joint Loading and Biomechanics Loading of a joint can have variable effects on the articular cartilage. Sudden impact loading can cause specific damage and in addition repetitive loading may also promote degenerative change whereas appropriate load within the required range will help with nutrition and function of the joint. The articular cartilage acts as a…

Driving is usually possible after five days when the knee is feeling comfortable. Make sure you can bend and straighten your knee vigorously without pain. Check that you can perform an emergency stop safely.

This section provides a wealth of information about the knee; conditions that can affect it, treatment options and detail on the operations along with rehabilitation afterwards. These pages are provided for general information only — you should not undertake any part of a programme unless instructed by your consultant or physiotherapist. If you have had…