Knee arthroscopy and meniscus repair
About
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows orthopedic surgeons to examine, diagnose, and treat problems inside the knee joint.
Using a small camera (arthroscope) inserted through tiny incisions, the surgeon can repair damaged cartilage, ligaments, or meniscus tears without the need for open surgery.
At ZagrebMed partner hospitals in Croatia, patients benefit from advanced arthroscopic technology, shorter recovery times, and precise surgical care performed by experienced orthopedic specialists.
The most common indications include:
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Meniscus and ligament tears
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Cartilage injuries
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Joint inflammation
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Chronic knee pain or instability
Candidate
You may be a good candidate for knee arthroscopy and meniscus repair if you suffer from ongoing knee pain, swelling, limited movement, or locking sensations caused by injury or degenerative changes. This procedure is suitable for both athletes and individuals experiencing chronic knee conditions related to wear and tear. During the consultation, the orthopedic specialist will evaluate your symptoms and imaging results to confirm whether arthroscopy is the best treatment option.
Preparation
Before the procedure, patients undergo a thorough orthopedic evaluation, including MRI, X-ray, or ultrasound imaging, to determine the type and extent of knee damage. It is usually recommended to avoid anti-inflammatory medications and blood thinners before surgery. Patients should also arrange support for the recovery period and inform the medical team about any existing health conditions or allergies. International patients receive personalized support through ZagrebMed, including travel coordination, accommodation assistance, and medical follow-up.
Treatment
Knee arthroscopy is performed under spinal or general anesthesia and typically takes between 30 and 90 minutes. The surgeon makes several small incisions, approximately half a centimeter long, through which a camera and micro instruments are inserted to visualize and treat the joint. Depending on the findings, the surgeon may repair or partially remove the meniscus, smooth or replace damaged cartilage, reconstruct ligaments such as the ACL or MCL, or remove inflamed tissue and loose fragments. This minimally invasive technique reduces trauma, pain, and recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.
Result
Most patients are able to walk with assistance within one or two days following the procedure. The return to everyday activities usually occurs within two to four weeks, depending on the patient’s overall health and rehabilitation progress. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in restoring mobility, strength, and joint stability. The long-term outcomes of arthroscopic knee surgery include significant pain reduction, improved movement, faster recovery, and minimal scarring.
Precautions
After the procedure, it is important to follow all medical recommendations to ensure proper healing. Patients are advised to avoid intense physical activity for several weeks and follow the rehabilitation plan designed by their physiotherapist. Regular check-ups help monitor progress and prevent complications. Any unusual swelling, redness, or persistent pain should be reported to the doctor immediately. International patients receive detailed post-operative instructions and a recovery plan before returning home.
ZagrebMed patient reviews
At the beginning of October 2025, my daughter underwent anterior cruciate ligament surgery. The procedure was performed under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Hašpl, to whom we are extremely grateful, especially for his detailed and professional explanation of the surgical procedure, the course of the operation, and all instructions and advice regarding therapy and recovery. His approach gave us a strong sense of security, and the professor truly did everything to ensure the best possible outcome.
The hospital itself is very modern, with the highest standards of cleanliness. We also have only words of praise for the staff, for their patience, dedication, professionalism, and the way they took care of all patient needs.
Summing up our experience, we can wholeheartedly recommend this hospital to everyone.
Very good, very happy with everything.
I had ACL+ Meniscus+ anterolateral ligament reconstruction at this hospital and am very satisfied with my results.
Friendly staff... smooth and quick surgery... overall a positive experience... the anesthesia team, doctors, and physiotherapists... all get top marks🙂
Dear all, I would like to thank you for your care and professional approach. Everything went very well, and I am satisfied with the service provided. Thank you and kind regards!
I recently suffered a serious shoulder injury. I decided for surgery in Zagreb at the Akromion clinic, based on the recommendation that it is the best in this part of Europe. First of all, I would like to thank Professor Čiček for his great effort and the entire staff from the reception staff, physiotherapists, nurses and technicians. They made it easier for me to get through the whole period while I was in the hospital.
Thanks to ZagrebMed's help, I found excellent cooperation for the proposed choice and all other information. Courtesy and collaboration with 5 stars. Thanks again
ZagrebMed had me experience the best customer care while simultaneously delivering on its promise to provide me with the most professional medical service provider.
Hello!
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff of the Akromion clinic for their friendliness and professionalism, especially Dr. Medančić, who performed the shoulder surgery. I must mention that after the operation I feel more than great and that the recovery process is going faster than I thought.
Praise....
We had a great experience with this clinic. Very professional and helpful staff! My husband had a knee surgery with Dr Sasa Jankovich. All went very well and super professional. Highly recommended!
Excellent and swift service, helped me find the right health provider and doctor for my knee! Loved it.
I must say that the service is top notch. Everyone is friendly and you can see that they care about the patient. Thanks to all of the nurses, physiatrist, anesthesiologist and Dr Cicak, for their approach to the patient and especially their kindness.
F.A.Q.
Knee arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that uses arthroscopic techniques to diagnose and treat knee problems, including meniscus repair.
Knee arthroscopy and meniscus repair are usually needed when there is meniscus damage, such as a tear, causing symptoms like pain, swelling, and limited knee mobility.
Knee arthroscopy is performed through small incisions, and the surgeon uses an arthroscope (a small flexible instrument with a camera) to visualize the internal structures of the knee. After diagnosing the meniscus damage, the surgeon can perform a repair using specialized instruments and suturing techniques.
The recovery time after knee arthroscopy and meniscus repair can vary, but generally, patients can expect several weeks to several months of rehabilitation and physical therapy before returning to normal activities. Physical therapy plays an important role in the recovery and restoration of knee functionality.
The time to return to activities depends on individual recovery and surgeon's recommendations. Initially, it is recommended to avoid high-impact activities and sports, but gradually, lighter activities can be reintroduced as the knee strengthens.
Although rare, potential risks and complications of knee arthroscopy and meniscus repair include infection, bleeding, thrombosis, scarring, swelling, and limited knee mobility.
Meniscus repair can provide significant relief from symptoms and improve knee functionality, but results can vary depending on the type and complexity of the damage, as well as individual recovery.
After knee arthroscopy and meniscus repair, it is important to follow the surgeon and physical therapist's recommendations, maintain an active and healthy lifestyle, avoid overloading the knee, and prevent traumatic activities.
Yes, physical therapy is an important part of the recovery process after knee arthroscopy and meniscus repair. A physical therapist will help you regain strength, stability, flexibility, and improve knee functionality, reducing the risk of further injuries.
The incisions made during knee arthroscopy are relatively small, resulting in small and discreet scars. Over time, the scars will fade and become less visible.
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