Knee pain affects people of all ages. From sports injuries to age-related arthritis, problems in the knee joint can impact mobility, independence, and quality of life. When conservative options such as medication, physiotherapy, and injections are no longer effective, knee surgery may offer the best path to long-term relief.

This guide explores the full range of orthopaedic knee surgeries, when they are recommended, what to expect during recovery, and how patients can achieve the best outcomes.

Understanding the Knee Joint

The knee is the largest and one of the most complex joints in the body. It is made up of:

  • Bones: Femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap).
  • Cartilage: Smooth tissue covering the joint surfaces, allowing frictionless movement.
  • Ligaments: Strong bands of tissue stabilising the joint — including ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL.
  • Meniscus: C-shaped shock-absorbing cartilage cushions between the femur and tibia.
  • Tendons and muscles: Supporting structures that power knee movement.

Damage to any of these structures can lead to pain, stiffness, and instability, sometimes requiring surgical intervention.

Structures of the Knee

Conditions That May Require Knee Surgery

Knee surgery is usually considered when symptoms do not improve with non-surgical treatments such as rest, physiotherapy, bracing, or medications. Common reasons include:

  • Osteoarthritis: Progressive wear and tear of joint cartilage causing pain and stiffness.
  • Meniscus Tears: Cartilage injuries leading to locking, swelling, and pain.
  • Ligament Injuries: ACL or PCL ruptures often from sports trauma.
  • Cartilage Defects: Localised damage that can accelerate arthritis if untreated.
  • Patellar Instability: Recurrent kneecap dislocation or maltracking.
  • Severe Deformity: Knock-knees or bowlegs causing abnormal load on the joint.
  • Failed Previous Surgery: Complications requiring revision procedures.

Severe knee osteoarthritis is treated with knee replacement

Types of Knee Surgery

1. Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

  • What it is: A minimally invasive “keyhole” procedure using a small camera and instruments.
  • Common uses: Treating meniscus tears, cartilage damage, ligament injuries, and removing loose bodies.
  • Benefits: Smaller incisions, quicker recovery, less pain, and faster return to daily life.
  • Recovery: Many patients walk the same day and return to normal activities within a few weeks.

2. Radiofrequency Ablation (Genicular Nerve Ablation)

  • What it is: Minimally invasive, image-guided heating of genicular nerves to block pain (local anaesthetic; day procedure).
  • Common uses: Knee osteoarthritis pain unresponsive to physio/meds; persistent pain after knee replacement (once mechanical causes are excluded); option for surgery-unfit patients.
  • Benefits: No incision, quick recovery, meaningful pain relief, reduced medication use; repeatable if needed.
  • Recovery: Walk same day; light activity in 24–48 hours; relief builds over 2–4 weeks and often lasts ~6–12 months.

3. Partial Knee Replacement (Unicompartmental Replacement)

  • When considered: Arthritis limited to one compartment of the knee.
  • Advantages: Smaller incision and less bone removal; faster recovery and more natural movement; less postoperative pain.
  • Limitations: Only suitable if arthritis is not widespread.

4. Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

  • Indication: Severe arthritis or widespread joint damage.
  • Procedure: Damaged surfaces of femur, tibia, and patella are replaced with high-grade metal and plastic implants.
  • Benefits: Long-lasting pain relief; restored mobility and function; correction of deformity.
  • Longevity: Implants typically last 15–20 years or longer.

5. Revision Knee Replacement Surgery

  • Why it’s needed: Implant loosening, infection, or wear of a previous knee replacement.
  • Procedure: The old implant is removed and replaced with a new, often more complex, prosthesis.
  • Challenges: Longer surgery and recovery, but can still restore function effectively.

Total Knee ReplacementLatest Technology in Total Knee Replacements

Knee Surgery vs. Non-Surgical Options

Many patients wonder when surgery becomes necessary. Non-surgical treatments such as physiotherapy, weight loss, bracing, and injections are usually tried first. Surgery is considered when:

  • Pain persists despite conservative management.
  • Quality of life is significantly reduced.
  • The joint is structurally damaged and unlikely to improve without intervention.

Book a Consultation

If knee pain is affecting your lifestyle and non-surgical treatments are no longer effective, knee surgery may offer a lasting solution. Our orthopaedic specialists provide expert diagnosis, advanced surgical techniques, and personalised recovery plans to help you regain mobility and return to the activities you enjoy.

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