The knee is the largest joint in the body, and one of the most easily injured. If you have persistent pain, or swelling in your knee, a minimally invasive procedure known as arthroscopy may help relieve these problems. "Arthroscopic surgery is really micro surgery where you look at the joint with small incisions," explains orthopedic surgeon John Kagan, MD.

During the procedure, surgical instruments are passed through small incisions in your knee to remove or repair damaged tissues. Today, arthroscopy is one of the most common orthopedic procedures in the United States. Dr. Kagan says that arthroscopy is fairly revolutionary because you can see and do things that you were unable to do years ago.

A few of the many benefits to arthroscopic surgery involve smaller incisions, less scarring, and of course a faster recovery time. According to Dr. Kagan, the surgery is associated with minimal discomfort resulting in only a small amount of time taken off from work.

Doctors say this new procedure is a dramatic difference from previous knee surgeries. You can usually resume your daily activities within a few days, but it may take several weeks for the joint to completely recover. Doctors may even suggest physical therapy to speed up recovery.