Knee injuries are very common. In fact, they account for more than 40 percent of all sports injuries.

Treatments for knee injuries are varied as well. Even when it comes to knee surgery, there are many different approaches and options for patients. It can be difficult to discern which option is best.

This article covers the most common knee surgery types. Keep reading to find out what they involve.

 

Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is one of the most common procedures performed on the knee. In fact, it often is used preceding many of the surgeries described below.

Arthroscopic knee surgery is a minimally invasive technique. It involves inserting a small camera through an incision in the knee. This lets physicians investigate and diagnose the causes of knee pain so that they can prescribe the best treatments.

Meniscus Repair or Meniscectomy

Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue found throughout the body, including the ears and nose. It also is found in joints, providing support, shock absorption, and smooth movement.

There are two pieces of cartilage in the knee, known as menisci. These are C-shaped pieces of cartilage that provide cushioning between the femur (thigh one) and the tibia (shin bone).

Cartilage repair is one of the most common knee surgery types. Loose or damaged meniscus fragments in the knee can cause many different problems, including chronic pain. Meniscus repair is a procedure used to treat a torn cartilage.

A meniscectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing all or part of the meniscus. This technique is used when the cartilage cannot be repaired and is causing pain or inhibiting knee function.

PCL and ACL Repair

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are the two main ligaments responsible for stabilizing the knee joint. Both are located in the center of the knee. The ACL runs diagonally across the PCL, which makes it more susceptible to injury.

ACLs and PCLs are made of strong fibrous tissue, that can often be repaired. This usually involves autografting, which takes tissue from the patient’s own body and uses it for PCL or ACL reconstruction. Sometimes synthetic crafts are used as well.

Partial and Total Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement involves replacing either part or all of the knee joint with a metal, ceramic, or plastic component. Knee replacement is a major surgery, but it is very common; approximately 790,000 total are performed every year in the U.S.

Knee replacement also has an extremely high success rate, with more than 90 percent of patients experiencing significant improvements in their symptoms. Knee replacement is also quite effective. Implants can function well for 20 years or more.

Learn More About the Most Common Knee Surgery Types

Now that you know the most commonly performed knee surgery types, you can have a better understanding of your treatment options. An orthopedic expert can further advise you on the best course of action for your recovery.

At Blackrock Orthopedics, fixing knees is our passion. We bring a wide range of expertise and experience to help put together unique treatment regimens for every patient. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or to discuss types of knee surgery.