Dr. Prohaska –
Knee Arthroscopy
Knee arthroscopy is performed by inserting a special instrument called an arthroscope into the knee through a small incision. The arthroscope is a special camera and lens that the surgeon uses to see inside the joint. He views the camera image on a television screen while he is operating. The surgeon uses another small incision to insert arthroscopic instruments inside of the joint to perform the surgery.
This page contains photographs taken during real knee arthroscopies. First, we will show you the normal knee anatomy. Next, there are photos of various injuries and conditions, followed by post-treatment photos.
You can also learn more about knee arthroscopy by viewing our surgery animations page or visiting our YouTube channel
Normal Knee Anatomy
- Normal anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) – Photo 1
- Normal meniscus – Photo 1, Photo 2
- Normal patella (knee cap) – Photo 1
- Normal articular cartilage – Photo 1
Knee Injuries and Conditions
- ACL tear – Photo 1, Photo 2
- Meniscus tear – Photo 1, Photo 2
- Bad Patella Cartilage (Chondromalacia) – Photo 1, Photo 2
- Patellar Maltracking – Photo 1
- Bad Articular Cartilage (Chondromalacia) – Photo 1
- Scar Tissue – Photo 1
After Surgery
- Menisectomy (partial removal) – Photo 1
- Meniscus Repair – Photo 1
- ACL Reconstruction with Hamstring Autograft – Photo 1, Photo 2
- ACL Reconstruction – 7 months after surgery
- After Lateral Release – Photo 1 (Fixes Patellar Maltracking)