Knee arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that allows doctors to view the knee joint without making a large incision (cut) through the skin and other soft tissues. Arthroscopy is used to diagnose and treat a wide range of knee problems.

During knee arthroscopy, a surgeon makes a very small incision and inserts a tiny camera—called an arthroscope—into your knee. This allows them to view the inside of the joint on a screen. The surgeon can then investigate a problem with the knee and, if necessary, correct the issue using small instruments within the arthroscope.

Arthroscopy diagnoses several knee problems, such as a torn meniscus or a misaligned patella. It can also be used to repair the ligaments of the joint. There are limited risks to the procedure and the outlook is good for most patients. Your recovery time and prognosis will depend on the severity of the knee problem and the complexity of the required procedure.

A knee arthroscopy may be recommended by a doctor in the following situations:

1. Diagnosing knee problems: If you're experiencing knee pain, swelling, or stiffness, and initial tests such as X-rays and MRIs don't provide a clear diagnosis, your doctor might suggest a knee arthroscopy to take a closer look.

2. Repairing or removing damaged cartilage or bone: If you have damaged or loose cartilage from an injury or arthritis, a knee arthroscopy can be used to repair or remove it.

3. Reconstructing torn ligaments: Knee arthroscopy is commonly used to reconstruct torn knee ligaments, especially the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

4. Treating inflammation or infection: If you have inflammation or infection in your knee joints, an arthroscopy can be used to take out inflamed synovial tissue.

5. Treating runner's knee: Arthroscopy can be used to correct issues like misalignment of the knee cap (patella).

6. Removing Baker's cyst: A Baker's cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that can form at the back of the knee, often due to arthritis or a cartilage tear. An arthroscopy can be used to remove it.

Remember, the decision to have surgery is always a decision made between the patient and their doctor, taking into account the patient's personal circumstances and health.

Orthopedic surgeons are the specialists who perform knee arthroscopy procedures. These are doctors who have completed additional training specifically in the musculoskeletal system, which includes the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.

Within orthopedics, some surgeons further specialize in specific areas such as sports medicine or joint replacement. These specialists often perform knee arthroscopy procedures, particularly if the procedure is related to a sports injury or is being used as part of a joint replacement treatment plan.

Always ensure that your surgeon is board-certified and has experience with the specific procedure you need.

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows doctors to view the knee joint without making a large incision (cut) through the skin and other soft tissues. Here's a general overview of what happens during a knee arthroscopy:

1. Anesthesia: Before the procedure, you'll be given anesthesia. This could be local (numbing only the knee area), regional (numbing you from the waist down), or general (you're asleep for the entire procedure).

2. Incision: The surgeon makes small incisions around your knee. The number of incisions can vary based on what needs to be done.

3. Insertion of Arthroscope: An arthroscope, a small camera the size of a pencil, is inserted through one of the incisions. The camera displays pictures on a television screen, and the surgeon uses these images to guide miniature surgical instruments.

4. Procedure: With the images from the arthroscope as a guide, the surgeon can look for any damage or disease in your knee. They can repair or remove the problem in the knee using small surgical tools inserted through other incisions.

5. End of Procedure: Once the surgery is completed, the surgeon will remove the instruments, and the incisions are usually closed with stitches or steri-strips (small adhesive strips) and covered with a dressing.

6. Recovery: You'll be moved to the recovery room and monitored as the anesthesia wears off. Depending on the type of procedure, you may be able to go home the same day.

Remember, this is a general overview. The exact steps can vary depending on your specific condition and the surgeon's techniques. Always consult with your healthcare provider for information tailored to your situation.

Recovering from a knee arthroscopy can vary from person to person, but here are some general tips:

1. Rest and Elevate: After surgery, it's important to get plenty of rest to allow your body to heal. Try to keep your leg elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling.

2. Ice: Applying ice to your knee can also help reduce swelling and relieve pain. Always wrap the ice in a cloth before applying it to your skin.

3. Physical Therapy: Your doctor will likely recommend physical therapy to help you regain strength and mobility in your knee. It's important to follow your therapist's instructions and do the exercises they recommend.

4. Medication: Your doctor will likely prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort after the surgery.

5. Follow-up Appointments: Make sure to attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor. They can monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

6. Gradually Increase Activity: As your knee heals, gradually increase your level of activity. Start with short walks and slowly build up to more strenuous activities.

Remember, everyone's recovery process is different, so it's important to listen to your body and not rush the healing process. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Several healthcare professionals are typically involved in a knee arthroscopy procedure. Here's a list of some of them:

1. Orthopedic Surgeon: This is the doctor who performs the surgery. They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves.

2. Anesthesiologist or Nurse Anesthetist: They are responsible for administering anesthesia and monitoring the patient's vital signs during the procedure.

3. Operating Room (OR) Nurses: These nurses assist the surgeon during the procedure. They also prepare the operating room and the patient for surgery.

4. Radiologic Technologists: They may be involved if imaging is needed during the procedure.

5. Physical Therapist: After the procedure, a physical therapist will typically work with the patient to help restore strength and mobility to the knee.

6. Occupational Therapist: They may also be involved in the recovery process, helping the patient adapt to their daily activities during recovery.

7. Primary Care Physician: They often refer the patient to the orthopedic surgeon and may be involved in post-operative care and monitoring.

8. Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner: They may assist in the surgery and/or provide follow-up care.

Remember, the exact team can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the healthcare system or hospital.

Several medical and surgical manufacturers produce the specialized equipment used in knee arthroscopy procedures. Here are a few:

1. Stryker: Stryker is a leading medical technology company that provides various orthopedic instruments and implants, including those used in arthroscopy.

2. Smith & Nephew: This company manufactures a range of medical devices for orthopedic procedures, including arthroscopic technology for knee surgeries.

3. Arthrex: Arthrex is a global medical device company that provides innovative products and educational services to orthopedic surgeons. They have a range of arthroscopy instruments and implants.

4. DePuy Synthes: Part of Johnson & Johnson, DePuy Synthes offers orthopedic and neuro products and services for joint reconstruction, trauma, spine, sports medicine, neuro, cranio-maxillofacial, power tools, and biomaterials.

5. Zimmer Biomet: This company offers products for various orthopedic surgeries, including knee arthroscopy.

6. Medtronic: Medtronic offers a range of medical technologies, including those used in orthopedic procedures.

7. ConMed: ConMed is a global medical technology company that specializes in surgical and patient monitoring products, including devices for arthroscopy.

Remember, the choice of equipment and devices often depends on the surgeon's preference, the specific needs of the patient, and the hospital's available resources.

Pharmaceutical companies play a crucial role in knee arthroscopy procedures by providing the necessary medications for pain management, anesthesia, and infection prevention. Here are a few:

1. Pfizer: Pfizer is a global pharmaceutical company that produces a wide range of medications, including pain relievers and antibiotics that might be used in the context of a knee arthroscopy.

2. Johnson & Johnson: They manufacture various pharmaceuticals that may be used in surgical procedures, including pain management drugs and antibiotics.

3. Merck & Co.: Merck produces a wide variety of pharmaceuticals, including anesthesia-related drugs and antibiotics.

4. AstraZeneca: This company offers various anesthetic agents that might be used during a knee arthroscopy.

5. Abbott Laboratories: Abbott produces a range of pharmaceuticals, including anesthetics and pain relievers.

6. Novartis: Novartis provides a variety of medications that could be used for pain management or infection prevention in a surgical setting.

7. Baxter: Baxter is known for its products used in anesthesia.

Remember, the specific drugs used can vary widely based on the patient's individual needs, the anesthesiologist's preferences, and the specific protocols of the hospital or surgical center.