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Knee Orthopedic Surgeon in Jacksonville, Florida

Knee Arthroscopy: Getting to the Source of Your Pain

Knee pain is one of the most common orthopedic complaints, and also one of the most variable. A problem that looks like early arthritis can turn out to be a meniscal tear. A catching sensation that seems structural can stem from loose cartilage, inflamed tissue, or a cyst that has been growing quietly over time. Knee arthroscopy gives Dr. Redmond the ability to look inside the joint directly, identify exactly what is causing pain or limited function, and in most cases treat the problem in the same procedure.

Dr. John Redmond is a Mayo Clinic-trained orthopedic knee surgeon with extensive experience in arthroscopic knee procedures. Using a small camera and precision instruments inserted through tiny incisions, he can diagnose and treat a wide range of knee conditions with minimal disruption to surrounding tissue, less post-operative pain, and a significantly faster recovery than traditional open surgery. For many patients, knee arthroscopy is the first step toward getting real answers—and real relief.

If knee pain or stiffness has been limiting you and you haven't been able to get a clear diagnosis or effective treatment, Dr. Redmond's practice in Jacksonville is ready to help. Request an appointment today.

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Knee_Arthroscopy

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery in Jacksonville, Florida

What to Expect From Knee Arthroscopy With Dr. Redmond

Knee arthroscopy is performed as an outpatient procedure under local, spinal, or general anesthesia. Dr. Redmond makes two or three small incisions around the knee and inserts an arthroscope through one of them, which is a narrow instrument with a camera and light source that projects a real-time image onto a monitor in the operating room. A sterile saline solution is injected into the joint to expand the space and provide a clear view of the internal structures. Surgical instruments are then passed through the remaining incisions to address whatever is found. The result:

  • Smaller incisions and significantly less scarring than open surgery
  • Minimal disruption to surrounding muscles, tendons, and ligaments
  • Less post-operative pain and a faster return to activity
  • Lower infection risk compared to open knee procedures
  • Same-day outpatient surgery for most patients

Conditions Treated With Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy can be used to diagnose and treat a range of conditions inside the joint, including:

  • Torn meniscus: One of the most common reasons for knee arthroscopy. Depending on the location and pattern of the tear, Dr. Redmond can repair or carefully trim the damaged tissue to restore function and relieve pain. Learn more about meniscus repair.
  • Damaged articular cartilage: Loose or torn cartilage fragments that cause pain, swelling, and catching can be removed or treated arthroscopically.
  • Inflamed synovial tissue: When the synovium (the joint lining) becomes chronically inflamed, arthroscopy allows the affected tissue to be removed directly.
  • Loose bodies: Small fragments of bone or cartilage floating in the joint space that interfere with movement and cause pain or catching.
  • Baker's cyst: A fluid-filled cyst at the back of the knee, often associated with a meniscal tear or arthritis, that can be drained or addressed during arthroscopy.
  • Patellar misalignment: In some cases, arthroscopy can be used to evaluate and address kneecap tracking problems. More significant instability may require a dedicated patellar realignment procedure.

Who Is a Candidate for Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is generally appropriate for patients with a confirmed or suspected structural problem inside the knee joint that has not responded adequately to conservative treatment such as rest, physical therapy, or injections. It is commonly performed in patients of all ages, from young athletes with acute injuries to older adults with chronic knee conditions. Dr. Redmond evaluates each patient individually based on their imaging, symptoms, and goals, and always discusses realistic expectations before recommending any procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions does knee arthroscopy treat?

Knee arthroscopy is used to diagnose and treat a range of structural problems inside the knee joint, including torn meniscus, damaged articular cartilage, inflamed synovial tissue, loose bodies, Baker's cysts, and some cases of patellar misalignment. In many cases, Dr. Redmond can diagnose and treat the problem in the same procedure, reducing the need for a separate diagnostic step or follow-up surgery.

How long is recovery from knee arthroscopy?

Recovery depends on the specific procedure performed and the patient's overall health and activity level. Most patients are able to walk with limited assistance shortly after surgery and can resume light activity within a few weeks. Return to sport or more demanding physical activity typically takes four to six weeks for simpler procedures and up to several months for more involved repairs. Dr. Redmond will provide a structured rehabilitation plan tailored to your procedure and goals.

Is knee arthroscopy the same as knee replacement?

No. Knee arthroscopy and knee replacement are very different procedures. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat specific problems inside the knee joint through small incisions, without altering the joint surfaces. Knee replacement removes the damaged joint surfaces and replaces them with prosthetic components, and is used for more advanced joint degeneration. Dr. Redmond will recommend the right approach based on your diagnosis and imaging.

How do I find an arthroscopic knee surgeon near me in Jacksonville?

Dr. Redmond's practice is located in Jacksonville, Florida, with two convenient office locations. You can request an appointment online at any time, and our team will follow up promptly to confirm your visit. We look forward to seeing you.

Ready to Get Answers About Your Knee Pain? Request a Consult Today

Precision Care. Exceptional Outcomes.

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