When Is Knee Surgery Considered?
Surgery may be recommended when:
- Knee pain limits daily activities
- Symptoms persist despite physiotherapy or injections
- Structural damage such as ligament rupture or severe cartilage loss is present
- Instability or mechanical symptoms affect function
A comprehensive clinical assessment and imaging help Dr Pai determine the most appropriate treatment for you. The goal is always to use the least invasive treatment that effectively restores function.
Surgical Options for Knee Problems
The most common categories of knee surgery include the following.
Sports Knee Surgery
These procedures are commonly performed in younger or active patients following sports injuries that cause instability or mechanical symptoms.
Knee Arthroscopy
A minimally invasive procedure performed through small incisions using a camera and specialised instruments.
Commonly used to treat:
- Meniscus tears
- Loose cartilage fragments
Realignment Surgery (Osteotomy)
Realignment procedures such as high tibial osteotomy shift weight away from the damaged portion of the knee joint. This can delay or prevent the need for knee replacement in selected patients.
Partial Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement involves replacing only the damaged compartment of the knee joint while preserving the healthy cartilage and ligaments.
This option may be suitable for patients with arthritis limited to one part of the knee.
Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement involves replacing the damaged joint surfaces with artificial components. This procedure is typically recommended when advanced arthritis causes persistent pain, stiffness, and loss of function.Specialist Knee Surgery in Melbourne
Dr Vishal Pai is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specialising in knee surgery, including:
- ACL reconstruction and sports knee injuries
- Robotic-assisted knee replacement
- Joint preservation procedures such as osteotomy
Every patient undergoes a comprehensive, personalised assessment to determine the most appropriate treatment pathway.