Can kids get knee surgery? How modern paediatric care ensures it’s safe
Written in association with:
Published: 24/01/2025
Edited by: Karolyn Judge
Knee surgery is not just for adults. Children may require knee surgery for a variety of conditions, including injuries, congenital abnormalities or developmental issues. Modern advancements in patient care and surgical techniques have made paediatric knee surgery safer and more effective than ever before.
When might a child need knee surgery?
Children may need knee surgery for several reasons, including:
Sports injuries: Tears in the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), meniscus damage, or fractures. Congenital abnormalities: Conditions like discoid meniscus or patellar dislocation that may require correction. Infections or inflammation: Joint infections or chronic conditions, such as juvenile arthritis, can sometimes necessitate surgical intervention. Growth-related issues: Problems like osteochondritis dissecans, where bone or cartilage in the knee joint becomes damaged.
Most cases are initially managed with non-surgical treatments like physiotherapy, bracing or medications. Surgery is typically reserved for cases where these approaches are not effective.
What’s involved in a paediatric knee operation?
A paediatric knee operation is carefully planned and performed with the child’s safety and growth in mind. While the specifics depend on the condition being treated, the general process involves:
Pre-operative assessment: A thorough evaluation using imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, to identify the problem and plan the surgery. Anaesthesia: The child is placed under general anaesthesia, administered by a paediatric anaesthetist to ensure comfort and safety throughout the procedure. Surgical technique: Minimally invasive methods, like arthroscopy, are commonly used. These involve small incisions and specialised instruments to repair or correct the issue. Growth plate care: The surgeon carefully avoids damaging the growth plates, which are critical for normal bone development. Post-operative care: The child’s recovery is supported by pain management, physiotherapy, and follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Every step is tailored to minimise risks and ensure the best possible outcome for the child’s long-term health and mobility.
How does paediatric care make knee surgery safer?
Modern paediatric care focuses on tailoring treatment to a child’s unique needs. Safety is prioritised at every stage, from diagnosis to recovery. Key advancements include:
Specialised equipment and techniques: Surgeons use smaller instruments and minimally invasive procedures, such as arthroscopy, to reduce trauma and speed up healing. Paediatric anaesthesia expertise: Anaesthetists with specialised training ensure safe dosing and monitoring tailored to a child’s size and development. Growth plate protection: Surgeons take care to avoid damaging growth plates in the knee, which are crucial for proper development. Enhanced imaging technology: MRI and 3D imaging help plan precise surgeries with minimal risk. Comprehensive aftercare: Rehabilitation programmes designed for children promote a smoother recovery and restore function as quickly as possible.
What should parents consider before surgery?
Parents play a crucial role in the decision-making process. Before proceeding with paediatric knee surgery, it’s important to:
Seek a second opinion: Confirm that surgery is the best option for your child’s condition. Choose a specialist: Opt for a paediatric orthopaedic surgeon with experience in knee surgery. Discuss recovery expectations: Understand the timeline for healing and post-operative care, including physiotherapy needs.
Knee surgery in children is safe when performed by experienced paediatric specialists using modern techniques. While surgery is usually a last resort, it can help resolve knee issues effectively and allow children to return to their daily activities without long-term complications. If your child is experiencing knee problems, consult a paediatric orthopaedic specialist to explore the best treatment options.