Knee Arthroscopy in Gangnam, Seoul Keyhole knee surgery
Knee arthroscopy lets your surgeon see and treat problems inside the knee through a few small incisions, such as a torn meniscus, a torn ACL or damaged cartilage.
Gangnam Nanoori Hospital, at 731 Eonju-ro in Gangnam-gu near Hakdong Station (Line 7, Exit 10), performs knee arthroscopy with English-speaking coordinators. Joint Center orthopedic surgeons use a small camera and instruments through tiny incisions to repair or trim a torn meniscus, reconstruct a torn ACL or treat cartilage damage, followed by rehabilitation with dedicated therapists. To book a consultation, message WhatsApp +82-10-6290-9796.
Who knee arthroscopy can help
Arthroscopy works best for mechanical problems inside the knee. It is generally not recommended for arthritis alone, because trimming worn cartilage usually does not give lasting relief. Your surgeon will confirm the diagnosis with an examination and MRI first.
Meniscus tears
A torn meniscus that catches, locks or keeps hurting can be repaired or carefully trimmed. See meniscus tears.
ACL tears
An unstable knee after an ACL tear can be reconstructed with a tendon graft placed arthroscopically.
Cartilage injury
Loose fragments or small areas of damaged cartilage, often from sports injuries, can be removed or treated.
Loose bodies
Small pieces of bone or cartilage floating in the joint can cause locking and are removed through the scope.
Inflamed joint lining
Persistent swelling from an inflamed lining that does not settle with treatment may be addressed arthroscopically.
Unclear knee problems
Occasionally, arthroscopy helps confirm and treat a problem that imaging and examination could not fully explain.
How knee arthroscopy works
Arthroscopy uses a pencil-thin camera to show the inside of your knee on a screen. Small instruments go in through separate tiny incisions, so the large muscles around the knee are not opened.
Pre-surgery planning
Exam and MRI review, a health check, and a clear explanation of what may be repaired, trimmed or reconstructed.
Anesthesia
Spinal or general anesthesia is chosen with the anesthesia team based on your health and procedure.
Camera inspection
Through a small incision, the surgeon inspects the cartilage, meniscus and ligaments, often filling the knee with fluid for a clear view.
Repair or reconstruction
The surgeon stitches or trims the meniscus, rebuilds the ACL with a graft, or removes loose fragments, as planned.
Closing and dressing
Incisions are closed with stitches or strips. A brace may be fitted after ligament or meniscus repair.
Arthroscopy compared with open knee surgery
For the problems arthroscopy is designed to treat, it is usually the standard approach. Open surgery is still needed for some fractures and for joint replacement.
| Knee arthroscopy | Open knee surgery | |
|---|---|---|
| Incisions | Several small incisions | One longer incision |
| Tissue disturbance | Less disruption to muscle and skin | More soft tissue opened |
| Typical uses | Meniscus, ACL, cartilage, loose bodies | Some fractures, joint replacement, complex reconstructions |
| Early recovery | Often faster return to walking for simple procedures | Usually longer initial recovery |
Recovery after arthroscopy depends mainly on what was done. A meniscus trim heals much faster than a meniscus repair or ACL reconstruction.
Typical recovery after knee arthroscopy
These are general timelines. Your surgeon and therapist will give you a plan based on your exact procedure and goals.
First days
Rest, elevation, ice and gentle exercises. Many people walk soon after a simple procedure, sometimes with crutches.
Weeks 1 to 6
Stitch removal and physical therapy. After a trim, daily activities often return within weeks; after a repair, weight-bearing may be limited.
Months 2 to 4
Strength and balance training. Light jogging may start after a meniscus repair if your surgeon agrees.
Months 6 to 12
After ACL reconstruction, return to pivoting sports usually takes many months and depends on strength and functional testing.
What an arthroscopic repair changes
Many arthroscopic procedures repair torn soft tissue. Here is the idea behind a ligament or meniscus repair.
Simplified medical illustration for education only, not a patient image. Results vary by condition and individual; your specialist will explain what to expect for your case.
Your Specialists
Care at this clinic is provided by Nanoori Joint Center orthopedic surgeons. Tap a doctor to see their full profile.
Common Questions
How long after knee arthroscopy can I fly home?
It depends on the procedure and your health. Flying increases the risk of blood clots after leg surgery, so your surgeon will advise on timing, leg exercises and other precautions. Tell our coordinators your travel dates before booking surgery.
Will arthroscopy help my knee arthritis?
Usually not on its own. Research shows that arthroscopic washing or trimming for arthritis alone rarely gives lasting benefit. Physical therapy, injections or, for advanced arthritis, knee replacement are more often recommended.
Is knee arthroscopy painful?
You will be under anesthesia during surgery. Afterward, most people have some pain and swelling for a few days to weeks, which is managed with medication, ice and elevation.
When can I return to sport?
After a simple meniscus trim, many people return to sport within weeks to a few months. After meniscus repair or ACL reconstruction, it usually takes several months and requires a full rehabilitation program.
Does insurance cover knee arthroscopy?
We accept Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS) for enrolled foreign residents. For international insurance, our coordinators explain the billing documents we provide; please check coverage and pre-approval with your insurer.
What should I bring to my consultation?
Bring your passport or ID, any MRI or X-ray images with reports, a list of medications, and your insurance details. Our coordinators can help with interpretation throughout your visit.
Ask whether arthroscopy is right for you
Send your MRI on WhatsApp and our English-speaking coordinators will arrange a surgeon review.
Related Care
Last updated October 2026. This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Contact us · Gangnam Nanoori Hospital home
