Your Knee Arthroscopy β Everything You Need to Know
We want you to feel informed, prepared, and confident. This guide is based on Dr. Berkowitz's own surgical instructions.
Same-Day Procedure
Minimally Invasive
Expert Care Since 1983
"I've recommended this procedure because it gives us the best path to getting you back to the activities you love β with minimal disruption to your life. Knee arthroscopy is one of the safest, most effective procedures I perform. I've dedicated my career to helping patients just like you recover fully and return to wellness. We are with you every step of the way."
β Dr. Dov J. Berkowitz, MD | Founder, Advanced Orthopaedics, PLLC
What is knee arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy means "looking inside the joint." Using a thin, pencil-sized instrument fitted with a tiny camera (an arthroscope), Dr. Berkowitz can see, diagnose, and treat problems inside your knee β without making a large cut. It is a well-established, proven technique that has helped millions of patients worldwide recover successfully.
Knee arthroscopy is minimally invasive β performed through tiny incisions using a small camera. Most patients go home the same day, and many return to light daily activities within just a few days.
Common reasons for knee arthroscopy
- β¦ Torn or damaged meniscus cartilage (very common, highly treatable)
- β¦ Loose fragments of bone or cartilage within the joint
- β¦ Inflamed or damaged joint lining (synovitis)
- β¦ Torn or misaligned ligaments
- β¦ Persistent knee pain, swelling, stiffness, or "locking" of the joint
Safety & track record
Knee arthroscopy has an excellent safety profile and is one of the most frequently performed orthopaedic procedures in the world. Dr. Berkowitz and our team use the most innovative technology available to make your procedure as safe and comfortable as possible. You are in highly experienced hands.
What happens on surgery day
The procedure typically takes up to half an hour. You will be at the surgery center for approximately 2β4 hours total, then go home the same day.
STEP 1β2
Arrival & Anesthesia
Arrive at the designated time. Nurses check you in, prep you, and place an IV. You'll meet the anesthesiologist. You will feel nothing during the procedure.
STEP 3β4
Surgery (20 min β 1 hour)
A sterile solution fills the joint. Dr. Berkowitz inserts the arthroscope through a small incision, views the knee on a monitor in great detail, and repairs or removes damaged tissue using small surgical instruments.
STEP 5β6
Closure & Home
Incisions closed with stitches or steri-strips and covered with a soft bandage. Rest in recovery 1β2 hours, receive post-op instructions, then go home the same day.
Will it hurt?
You will not feel anything during the procedure. Afterward, some soreness, swelling, and stiffness are completely normal. Dr. Berkowitz will prescribe pain medication to keep you comfortable. Please do NOT take additional Tylenol on top of your prescription medications. Apply ice to help with swelling and discomfort.
Your road to recovery
Because arthroscopy uses tiny incisions and doesn't disturb surrounding tissue, recovery is dramatically faster than traditional open surgery. Following Dr. Berkowitz's instructions carefully is the key to the best and fastest outcome.
NIGHT OF SURGERY
Rest at Home
Have a responsible adult stay with you. Keep leg elevated as much as possible. Take prescribed medication. Apply ice.
DAYS 1β3
Dressing Care
Remove the dressing 3 days after surgery, shower, dry thoroughly, then cover each incision with a band-aid.
WEEKS 1β2
Follow-Up Visit
Return to Dr. Berkowitz's office within 7β14 days. He will review the procedure, remove sutures, and guide your next steps.
WEEKS 2β8
Physical Therapy
PT 2β3x per week for 6β8 weeks (unless Dr. Berkowitz advises otherwise). Builds strength and restores motion.
WEEKS 2β6
CPM Machine
Use your CPM (Continuous Passive Motion) machine at home for 4β6 weeks. A company rep will deliver it. Significantly accelerates recovery by improving range of motion and preventing adhesions. Does NOT replace PT β both are essential.
1β3 MONTHS
Return to Life
Most patients resume normal activities. Athletes begin sport-specific rehabilitation with guidance from Dr. Berkowitz.
β ACL Reconstruction β Special Instructions: Your surgeon will advise you to wear a brace. Do NOT use the CPM machine or start physical therapy until Dr. Berkowitz specifically instructs you to.
β οΈ Call our office immediately if you experience:
β’ Fever above 101Β°F
β’ Excessive bleeding from the incision
β’ Chills, persistent nausea, or vomiting
β’ Rash or allergic reaction
β’ Excessive swelling or redness around incision
β’ Pus or discharge from the incision
β’ Calf pain, redness, or leg swelling (possible blood clot)
Call: (718) 575-5454
How to prepare for surgery
π Prepare your home
- β Set up a recovery area on the ground floor to avoid stairs
- β Stock up on ice packs, pillows for elevation, and easy meals
- β Place essentials within easy reach
- β Have a responsible adult to drive you home and stay the first night
- β Prepare loose clothing β shorts or athletic pants work best
π Medications β Important
Inform Dr. Berkowitz of ALL medications, supplements, and vitamins you currently take. You may be asked to stop certain blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs several days before surgery. Never stop prescription medications without guidance from our office. After surgery, do not take additional Tylenol on top of your prescription pain medication.
π Surgery Centers
Surgicore Surgical Center
550 Newark Ave, Suite 501, Jersey City, NJ 07306
Fifth Ave Surgery Center
305 East 47th St, New York, NY 10017
Dr. Berkowitz's office will confirm which location your procedure is scheduled at.
