Knee arthroscopy surgery in Bristol

Why choose Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital for my knee arthroscopy?

For over 50 years, we've been providing people in Bristol and the surrounding area with the highest standards of private healthcare. Our recently refurbished hospital offers modern treatment facilities in a clean and safe environment.

Patients always receive a personal service at our hospital. You'll see the same knee specialist consultant throughout your treatment. If you're worried about your knee, we can diagnose you quickly and get to the root of the problem.

Your surgeon can diagnose problems such as a torn cartilage, ligament damage and arthritis. To aid a full and speedy recovery we also provide onsite physiotherapists.

What is knee arthroscopy surgery?

Knee arthroscopy is usually done under general anaesthetic. The knee arthroscopy operation usually takes between half an hour and three-quarters of an hour. Your surgeon will make two or three small incisions and insert a tiny camera to examine the inside of your knee. They will wash out any loose material caused by wear of the joint surfaces. It is usually possible for your surgeon to trim or repair a torn cartilage without needing to make a larger cut.

After the operation at our Bristol Hospital

Once your knee surgery is over, you’ll be taken to the recovery room where you will wake from the anaesthetic. Your wounds, blood pressure and pulse will be checked carefully.

You should be able to go home the same day as your operation. You won’t be able to drive, so you will need someone to come and take you home from the hospital once you have been discharged.

How long will it take me to recover from the knee operation?

Depending on the level of repair done the arthroscopy procedure causes very little tissue damage. Most patients recovery fairly quickly. Your knee will be swollen and sore for the first week following your arthroscopy. Most patients return to normal activity levels within two to three weeks. Be sure and discuss any concerns regarding your recovery with your surgeon.

Most people make a good recovery and return to normal activities following knee arthroscopy. As with any surgery there can be complications:

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Infection of the surgical site (incision)
• Scarring
• Blood clots (DVT - deep vein thrombosis)
• Difficulty passing urine
  

Specific complications of knee arthroscopy might include:

• Damage to the nerves around the knee
• Developing a lump under the wounds
• Severe pain, stiffness and loss of use of the knee