Arthroscopy in the management of knee disorders.

In the past 15 years arthroscopy and arthroscopic surgery have dramatically altered the pattern of knee surgery throughout the western world. Although the equipment is expensive and fragile and patience and skill are required to perform the lengthy procedures, the advantages to the patient are significant. Accurate diagnosis is possible and the microsurgical corrective procedure causes little interference to lifestyle. An early return to full activity benefits the patient and the community by reducing both hospital costs and loss of earnings. The safe application of these techniques is available in all major Australian cities from experienced and capable orthopaedic surgeons.