Anaesthesia for Knee Arthroscopy (Knee Scope)

Knee arthroscopy (often called a “knee scope”) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat problems such as meniscal tears, loose bodies, cartilage damage, or inflammation inside the knee joint.

Before Surgery

• Fasting: No food for 6 hours before surgery. Clear fluids (water, black tea/coffee without milk, clear apple juice) are allowed until 2 hours before.

• Medications: Most regular medicines should be taken as usual unless advised otherwise. Blood thinners and some diabetes medications may require adjustment.

• Pre-operative consultation: I am happy to discuss your anaesthetic plan beforehand if you would like.

Anaesthetic Plan

For knee arthroscopy, you will usually have a general anaesthetic (GA).

General anaesthetic
You will be fully asleep and unaware during the procedure.

Nerve block (in selected cases)
Depending on the type of surgery being performed, I may perform a nerve block around the thigh using ultrasound guidance.
This provides additional pain relief after surgery and can reduce the need for strong opioid medicines.

Local anaesthetic from the surgeon
Your surgeon will usually inject local anaesthetic into the knee joint at the end of the procedure.

The plan is tailored to the exact procedure and your medical background.

Medications During Surgery

Pain relief
Strong pain relief medicines are given through your drip during the operation as required.

Dexamethasone
A steroid given during surgery to reduce inflammation, improve comfort, and reduce nausea.

Anti‑inflammatory medication
If suitable for you, intravenous anti-inflammatory medication may be given to reduce pain and swelling.

Antiemetics
Medicines are given to reduce the chance of nausea or vomiting after surgery.

After Surgery

Regular pain relief (for 5 days)

Paracetamol
Taken regularly for 5 days.

Anti‑inflammatory (NSAID)
If suitable for you, taken regularly for 5 days to reduce pain and swelling.

Stronger pain relief (if required)

Depending on the type of procedure and your expected pain level, you may also be prescribed:

• Tapentadol sustained-release for a short course
• Tapentadol immediate-release as needed
• Oxycodone (in selected cases)
• Buprenorphine (longer-acting option in some patients)

Nausea relief

Ondansetron may be prescribed if needed.

Your medication plan is individualised to balance comfort with safety and minimise side effects.

Recovery and Pain Expectations

Most knee scopes cause mild to moderate pain for several days.

Pain is often worse in the first 48–72 hours and then steadily improves.

Swelling and stiffness are common, particularly with more extensive procedures such as meniscal repair or cartilage work.

If a nerve block is used, this may provide pain relief for the first 12‑24 hours.

Physiotherapy and early movement are important for recovery.

Side Effects

Drowsiness, nausea or constipation from opioid medicines.

Temporary leg weakness or numbness if a nerve block is used.

Stomach irritation from anti-inflammatory medicines in some patients.

Side effects are monitored and medication is adjusted as needed.

Safety and Monitoring

Your pain relief will be reviewed in recovery before discharge.

You will receive written instructions about your medications and when to seek help.

All techniques and medicines used are standard practice and tailored to you.