Diagnostic Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is one of the most common procedures performed annually by orthopedic surgeons, given its diagnostic and therapeutic utility. It is imperative to have a solid technical foundation in performing a diagnostic knee arthroscopy, particularly patient positioning, accurate portal placement, and a step-by-step approach to evaluate the various compartments of the knee. Proper patient positioning allows the surgeon to efficiently manipulate the operative extremity, which is critical to adequately visualize all compartments of the knee. Portal placement and the use of accessory portals should be placed according to the pathology needing to be addressed during the case. Although arthroscopy is considered one of the greatest surgical advances in orthopedic practice during the twentieth century, it is not a benign procedure, and patients should be counseled accordingly on the risks during their pre-operative evaluation.