What it is
Through small cuts, the surgeon looks inside the knee with a camera and uses small tools. It's how ACL and meniscus surgery are done, and it can remove loose pieces of bone or cartilage.
Who it's usually for
Certain mechanical problems such as a knee that locks. It is not recommended for knee arthritis on its own: studies show 'cleaning out' an arthritic knee doesn't help more than non-surgical care.
Pros and cons
✓ Pros
- Small cuts and a quick recovery.
- Can fix mechanical problems like locking.
⚠ Cons and risks
- Doesn't help pain from arthritis.
- Small risks of infection, blood clots and swelling.
Recovery times are typical ranges; yours may be different. Your surgeon can tell you what to expect.
What recovery is like
Most people walk the same day and do simple exercises at home for a few weeks.
Questions to ask your surgeon
- What exactly will you do inside my knee?
- Do I have arthritis, and would this help it?
When to get help quickly: Get help the same day for a hot, red, swollen joint with fever, if you can't put weight on your leg after an injury, or, after surgery, for fever, wound drainage, or new calf pain or swelling. For chest pain or sudden shortness of breath, call 911.
What surgeons say in their videos
Videos from different surgeons and doctors, newest first. They share their own views, and we don't rank or endorse any of them.
Common questions about knee arthroscopy
What is knee arthroscopy?
Through small cuts, the surgeon looks inside the knee with a camera and uses small tools. It's how ACL and meniscus surgery are done, and it can remove loose pieces of bone or cartilage.
Who is knee arthroscopy for?
Certain mechanical problems such as a knee that locks. It is not recommended for knee arthritis on its own: studies show 'cleaning out' an arthritic knee doesn't help more than non-surgical care.
What is recovery like after knee arthroscopy?
Most people walk the same day and do simple exercises at home for a few weeks.
How long is the hospital stay for knee arthroscopy?
Typically usually go home the same day.
What are the risks of knee arthroscopy?
Doesn't help pain from arthritis. Small risks of infection, blood clots and swelling.
Getting ready
Losing extra weight, exercising before surgery, stopping smoking and getting your home ready can make surgery safer and recovery easier.
How to get ready for surgery →Find a surgeon
Look up hip and knee surgeons in your state, from public records.
Find a hip & knee surgeon →Other knee surgeries
Sources
We base this page on these major medical organizations and studies. How we write our pages.
General information written for Hip & Knee Surgery, not by the surgeons in the videos. For education only; not medical advice. Last reviewed October 2026.