Arthroscopy and Ligament Reconstruction in the Knee

Ligament injuries in the knee are a common cause of disability in the active population. The advent of arthroscopy and arthroscopic surgical techniques has changed our ability to diagnose and treat these injuries. Arthroscopy has become the gold standard for diagnosis of intra-articular ligament injuries, as well as meniscal and articular cartilage pathology. It combines optimal visualization and the ability to manipulate tissue under anesthesia to best understand the degree of ligament injury and knee instability. Arthroscopy has also evolved into the primary means for the surgical treatment of injuries to intra-articular ligaments, articular cartilage, and meniscus.