Immediately after surgery

After the procedure, you will be given pain relief and monitored as you wake from the anaesthetic. You can usually go home a few hours after surgery and will need to be picked up by someone you know. Someone must also stay with you for your first night home from surgery.

Mobility and walking aids

You will need two crutches for the first few days and should rest with minimal activity during this time.

When you feel comfortable, you may progress to one crutch, used on the opposite side to your operated knee.

Caring for your wounds

You will have two small wounds on either side of your knee, each covered with a small dressing. These must remain clean, dry, and intact for two weeks.

A small amount of blood staining is normal. If you are concerned about excessive bleeding:

• apply gentle pressure

• rest and elevate the leg

• apply ice.

If bleeding continues, please contact our rooms.

Avoid getting the dressings wet in the shower. If they do get wet, gently pat them dry. Do not bathe or swim until four weeks after your operation.

Managing your pain after surgery

Some swelling and pain are a normal part of recovery and will gradually improve.

In the early days:

• rest and elevate the leg when seated

• apply ice for 20–30 minutes every few hours

• keeping activity light for the first few days

• take pain relief as prescribed.

You should begin gentle bending and straightening of the knee as soon as it feels comfortable to avoid stiffness (a list of exercises will be provided to you).

You will be given pain medication to take home. For many patients, Panadol every 4–6 hours is sufficient, but you may also take other prescribed pain relief if needed.

If you are worried about your level of pain, contact our rooms for reassurance and to rule out rare complications.

Recovery timeline

• 4 weeks: generally recovered and functional

• 3 months: fully recovered but can vary from person to person

Returning to work

• Desk‑based work: 3–5 days

• Manual or labour‑intensive work or roles involving a lot of walking and use of stairs: please discuss with Mr Patten

Driving

• Right knee replacement: approximately 6 weeks

• Left knee replacement: 3–6 weeks (depending on manual vs automatic car)

Risks and complications

Knee arthroscopy is very safe. Although uncommon, complications can include:

• a very low risk of infection which may require antibiotics

• excessive swelling

• persisting pain or dysfunction.

Further surgery may be required.