Knee Arthroscopy Perth

What is knee arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that involves a miniature camera to inspect the inside of the knee. The procedure in Perth is performed by making small incisions to insert the camera and surgical tools. This procedure is primarily used to identify underlying knee issues such as meniscus tear, cartilage damage or loose bodies.

What is a loose body?

A loose body is a piece of the knee that is mobile and moving around the joint. Common causes of loose bodies include cartilage fragments, small pieces of bone or a loose piece of meniscus. Loose bodies classically cause intermittent catching or locking-type pain.

Can a loose body settle without surgery?

Yes, the loose body can find a stable ‘home’ within the knee and stop moving around your knee. Often the loose body becomes embedded in the soft tissues in the middle of the knee or above the knee cap. This can result in relief from symptoms. If a loose body stops giving symptoms, you can safely leave it within your knee.

What does surgery involve?

Surgery is arthroscopic ‘keyhole’ surgery to remove the loose body. It is done as a day-case procedure and you can commence immediate weight bearing and movement of the knee as pain allows. Most patients get a rapid resolution of knee pain and locking symptoms. Usual risks of arthroscopy still apply which include pain, swelling, infection, stiffness and blood clots .

How much does an arthroscopy cost in Perth?

Knee arthroscopy is an important procedure when it comes to diagnosing and treating knee problems. It involves using a tiny camera to view the inside of your knee joint, allowing doctors to diagnose and treat any issues. In Perth, the average cost of a knee arthroscopy will vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the procedure and the medical practice. Dr Daniel Meyerkort is a Known Gap Provider with all Private health funds. This means that you fund will pay the majority of the cost of your procedure.

How much does knee arthroscopy cost with Medicare?

If you meet the criteria for Medicare coverage, knee arthroscopy may be partially covered by. Private health insurance covers  another part of the cost with the remaining out of pocket costs as gap fees (Surgeon, anaesthetist and hospital).

Is arthroscopy a major surgery?

Knee arthroscopy is generally considered a minor surgery. It doesn’t typically require an overnight stay in the hospital and recovery times are usually very quick. Most patients can walk with some assistance within a few days of the procedure and can often return to work or other activities after 7-10 days. All surgery carries risk and the most common complaint after knee arthroscopy if ongoing pain or an extended time for the knee to settle. In general this is a higher risk if you have underlying osteoarthritis of the knee in which case Dr Meyerkort does not normally recommend arthroscopy. Other risks include infection, blood clots, swelling, stiffness, ongoing pain or nerve pain. 

How painful is an arthroscopy?

Generally, the pain associated with knee arthroscopy is minimal. Most patients are given a local anaesthetic to numb the area before the procedure and experience very little discomfort during or after it. However, this will vary for each patient depending on their individual circumstances. Patients are given pain relieving medication which is taken for the first 7 – 10 days after surgery.

Will I be able to walk after an arthroscopy?

Yes, most patients are able to walk with some assistance after the arthroscopy. However, this will depend on the extent of your procedure and individual recovery times. It’s important to speak to your doctor before undergoing an arthroscopy so that you can get a better understanding of what kind of mobility you can expect afterwards.