Knee arthroscopy is performed by inserting a special instrument called an arthroscope (opens in new tab) 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 (opens in new tab)
Normal Knee Anatomy
- Normal anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
- Normal meniscus – Photo 1 (opens in new tab), Photo 2 (opens in new tab)
- Normal patella (knee cap) – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
- Normal articular cartilage – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
Knee Injuries and Conditions
- ACL tear – Photo 1 (opens in new tab), Photo 2 (opens in new tab)
- Meniscus tear – Photo 1 (opens in new tab), Photo 2 (opens in new tab)
- Bad Patella Cartilage (Chondromalacia) – Photo 1 (opens in new tab), Photo 2 (opens in new tab)
- Patellar Maltracking – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
- Bad Articular Cartilage (Chondromalacia) – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
- Scar Tissue – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
After Surgery
- Meniscectomy (partial removal) – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
- Meniscus Repair – Photo 1 (opens in new tab)
- ACL Reconstruction with Hamstring Autograft – Photo 1 (opens in new tab), Photo 2 (opens in new tab)
- ACL Reconstruction – 7 months after surgery (opens in new tab)
- After Lateral Release – Photo 1 (opens in new tab) (Fixes Patellar Maltracking (opens in new tab))