Discuss knee arthroscopy with Dr. Mesut Sançmış, an orthopaedics and traumatology specialist in Antalya. Understand which knee problems may benefit and what recovery involves.
Knee arthroscopy is a surgical technique that allows an orthopaedic surgeon to examine and treat structures inside the knee through small incisions. A camera, called an arthroscope, displays the joint on a monitor while instruments are used through separate openings.
Arthroscopy describes how the joint is accessed, not one particular treatment. Removing a loose fragment, repairing a meniscus and reconstructing a ligament involve different procedures and recovery requirements.
The aim is to address a defined problem rather than perform a general clean-up for every painful knee.
Which Knee Problems Can Be Treated?
Selected Meniscus Tears
A suitable meniscus tear may be repaired with stitches to preserve its cushioning function. When an unstable fragment cannot be repaired and is responsible for symptoms, limited trimming may be considered.
The tear pattern, blood supply and condition of the surrounding cartilage influence the decision. A tear seen on MRI does not automatically require surgery.
Ligament Injuries
Arthroscopy can assist reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament and selected other ligament procedures. The camera helps assess associated damage and guide work inside the joint.
Ligament reconstruction is a more substantial operation than a simple inspection. It requires its own rehabilitation programme.
Loose Bodies and Localised Joint Problems
Fragments of cartilage or bone can move within the knee and interfere with movement. Arthroscopy may remove these loose bodies or treat selected cartilage defects and inflamed joint lining.
Treatment should match the structure causing the symptoms. Not every click or area of discomfort indicates a removable fragment.
When Is Knee Arthroscopy Not Recommended?
Arthroscopic washing or debridement is not recommended as routine treatment for knee osteoarthritis. It does not restore broadly worn cartilage or reverse the underlying disease.
Degenerative meniscus changes also frequently improve with exercise-based treatment. Persistent discomfort alone does not establish that trimming the meniscus will help.
A knee that becomes physically locked and cannot straighten is a different situation requiring prompt assessment. This should be distinguished from occasional clicking, stiffness or pain when moving.
Assessment Before Surgery
The consultation considers previous injuries, swelling, locking, instability and the activities you find difficult. Examination checks movement, tenderness and ligament function.
Weight-bearing X-rays can identify arthritis and alignment problems. MRI may clarify meniscus, ligament or cartilage damage when the findings would affect treatment.
The proposed operation should have a clear purpose. Ask which structure will be treated, whether repair or removal is planned and what non-surgical alternatives remain reasonable.
Alternatives to Knee Arthroscopy
Physiotherapy can improve strength, knee control and tolerance of activity. Appropriate medication, temporary activity adjustments and weight management where relevant may also help.
These approaches are particularly important when symptoms relate to joint degeneration rather than a displaced injury.
A course of rehabilitation should be reviewed against meaningful goals, such as easier walking or fewer giving-way episodes. Lack of improvement prompts reassessment, not automatic approval for surgery.
How Knee Arthroscopy Is Performed
The procedure takes place under an appropriate anaesthetic, which may be general or regional. Small openings allow the camera and instruments to enter the knee, while sterile fluid provides a clearer view.
The surgeon examines the joint and carries out the agreed treatment. Any additional procedure should fall within the options discussed during consent.
Many arthroscopies are performed as day surgery, but discharge depends on the operation, your health and safe mobility. Arrange someone to accompany you after anaesthesia and clarify any support needed at home.
Recovery After Knee Arthroscopy
Early Care and Walking
Pain, swelling and stiffness can occur after surgery. Follow the instructions for dressings, pain relief and managing swelling.
Crutches may be needed initially. Whether you can place full weight through the leg depends on what was done, not simply the size of the incisions.
Rehabilitation After Different Procedures
Recovery after removing a loose body or trimming a meniscus may progress over weeks. Meniscus repair, cartilage treatment and ligament reconstruction commonly require protection and rehabilitation over several months.
A repaired meniscus may need restrictions on bending and weight-bearing. Cartilage procedures can involve a different loading schedule, while ligament reconstruction requires progressive strength and movement training.
Returning to Work and Sport
Return depends on swelling, movement, strength and the demands of the activity. Desk work and a job involving kneeling or lifting require different levels of recovery.
Driving and sport should resume only when you can perform them safely and the treating team has confirmed that the restrictions allow it.
Risks and Treatment Limitations
Complications include infection, blood clots, bleeding into the joint, stiffness and injury to nearby nerves or blood vessels. Symptoms can persist, and repaired tissue may fail to heal or become injured again.
Seek prompt assessment for fever, wound discharge, worsening pain or new calf swelling. Chest pain or sudden breathlessness requires emergency care.
Arthroscopy cannot guarantee a pain-free knee or prevent all future arthritis.
Knee Arthroscopy Cost in Turkey
The quotation should identify the actual procedure. Meniscus repair, ligament reconstruction and loose body removal can involve different equipment and rehabilitation needs.
Clarify the hospital, anaesthesia, implants or repair materials, physiotherapy and follow-up included. Ask how any additional treatment or extended stay would be charged.
Share previous imaging and treatment records before arranging a planned assessment. Confirm the early review schedule and how rehabilitation will continue after returning home.
Discuss travel timing with the surgical team. Hospital discharge and fitness to fly are separate decisions, particularly when walking is restricted.
This information does not replace an individual medical assessment. Treatment suitability and recovery vary between patients.
Reviews
What Patients Say
Read reviews of Dr. Sançmış and MSM Klinik on Google, WhatClinic and Trustpilot.
I wish to take this opportunity to thank Dr Mesut Sançmış for his kind, caring and professional approach to my long term medical issues. He very efficiently examined, tested and diagnosed my medical issues and offered treatment of arthroscopic knee surgery for the following day.
The surgery was an absolute success with my original pain now gone and the procedure stiffness subsiding daily. I can already walk and sleep better and my quality of life is improving. The constant pain etched on my face and in my daily life has gone and I can never thank him enough. He is a true gentleman and 5 star surgeon.
Trustpilot
From the very beginning, I felt that I was in good hands with Dr. Mesut Sançmis . The consultation was clear, supportive, and reassuring, which made me feel confident about moving forward. Throughout the treatment, Dr. Mesut Sançmis showed great care and professionalism, always making sure I was comfortable and informed.
The results have exceeded my expectations — my feet not only look better, but I feel more confident and at ease in my daily life. It has truly been a positive change for me, both physically and emotionally.
I am very grateful for the expertise, kindness, and attention to detail that Dr. Mesut Sançmis provided. I would gladly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for high-quality, compassionate care.
WhatClinic
The Dr was very helpful and honest and gave me my options how to go forward. Very pleased with the support. I requested injections and the Dr recommended would not help as my condition requires surgery in the near future
Google
MSM Klinik have been excellent. From the initial consultation, through the Hospital procedure and the after care absolutely fantastic. Communication about the knee procedure and the ease of making it happen with genuine concern for your welfare and recovery. Highly recommend this great Klinic. Thanks MSM
Google
I fortunately came across Dr. Mesut while researching orthopedic surgeons in Antalya after suffering a severe heel fracture in the United States. From the beginning, I was uneasy with the treatment plan proposed by my U.S. surgeon. After more than a year of being told that it was simply a “bad break” that would take time to heal, it was finally discovered that I had also severely sprained my ankle at the time of the injury, resulting in partial ligament and tendon tears that had been missed entirely.
When these tears were eventually identified, the solution I was given was ankle fusion surgery, an option that would have permanently limited my mobility. This did not sit right with me.
While in Antalya for my spouse's dental care, I had the opportunity to consult with Dr. Mesut at MSM Klinik. His team quickly arranged comprehensive testing to fully understand what was happening with my foot. Dr. Mesut confirmed the ligament and tendon damage but was very clear that ankle fusion was not the appropriate solution for my case. Through my time there, it was clear to me that he treats a wide range of complex orthopedic conditions, not just ankle cases, which gave me even more confidence in his overall experience. From our first conversation, I felt confident in his expertise. He immediately recognized the complexity of my injury, especially given that my foot had healed incorrectly over the course of more than a year and a half.
After returning to the U.S. and doing further research, I made the decision to go back to Antalya and proceed with surgery under Dr. Mesut’s care. One of the major factors in my decision was his use of stem cell therapy, an option that was never even discussed by my doctors in the United States.
From start to finish, the level of professionalism and compassion at MSM Klinik was exceptional. Everyone in the office was attentive, organized, and supportive. Eli was especially wonderful, managing all logistics and providing clear translation throughout the entire process, which made everything seamless and stress free. During my stay, I also received IV vitamin and supportive therapies at the office designed to aid healing and speed recovery.
I am now just 2.5 weeks post surgery and already able to walk at approximately 50% weight bearing. In the U.S., I would have been non-weight bearing for at least two months before even beginning this stage. My recovery has been faster and smoother than I ever expected, and everything is healing remarkably well.
Trustpilot
Near Lara/speak English/top orthopedic
Top orthopedic. We needed a hand surgeon for our son who had an accident with a knife. Great Service via WhatsApp/speak English. Modern clinic. All innovative methods. State of art Equipment. Near hotels in Lara/Kundu. Also good for international tourists.
Google
I had a bit of a medical emergency during my trip to Antalya, and I'm so glad I found this clinic. They managed to squeeze me in right away and built a care program that worked perfectly with the rest of my stay. The doctor was wonderful, and having a translator there made the whole process stress-free. I felt truly well-cared for at every appointment!
WhatClinic
Dr Mesut and the team were exceptional and delivered excellent service. My issue was well investigated and management options/plans were provided. I am well satisfied with the service and happy with the outcome. Thank you again
Google
Service was excellent. I’m forever grateful to Surgeon Mesut Sancmis for taking care of me. I’m still recovering and have a follow up coming soon but I’m confident I will recover 100%. The whole staff was very attentive and professional. Starting with the driver he was so helpful and nice assisting me with my wheelchair. Amy who was with me throughout the whole process made sure all my needs and concerns were addressed. I didn’t feel there was a language barrier because she was there to translate and facilitate all my needs. Even after discharge Dr Mesut and Amy visit me multiple times to check on me and make sure everything was going well. I highly recommend them. Dr Mesut Sancmis is an awesome surgeon I’m glad I found him and if I ever need surgery again i will choose him, I highly recommend him. Thank you 🙏🏽
Google
My wife had a knee injection at MSM Klinik in Antalya in Turkey last year. She had been suffering from severe knee pain for several years and the injection really helped her regain mobility. So, we returned to MSM Klinik this year, where she has now had a second injection, which we expect will help her sustain her ability to walk at least another six months free of pain. My wife has been referred to NHS orthopedic specialists in the UK and is waiting for their diagnosis also. Waiting times are very long still in the UK, so the assistance provided by MSM Klinik in Turkey in the meantime has been extremely helpful.
WhatClinic
I visited Antalya in early May of 2025, while experiencing acute sciatica pain going down my left leg. I got in touch with MSM Klinik and had the exam scheduled promptly after talking over the phone with the staff. I had the X-rays and MRI done very promptly at Yasam Hastanesi Life Hospital. MSM Klinik staff, Mr. Mursel, took me to the hospital and was with me there while I was getting the x-rays and MRI done. Then he drove me back to the MSM Klinik where we reviewed the results with the Doctor. The Doctor appeared very knowledgeable and offered an effective treatment plan. However, it was beyond my budget. I continued to manage my back pain with NSAID.
I'm giving 5 starts for the service and promptness, but not for any medical procedure as no medical procedure was done.
The Doctor, his assistant Mr. Murcel, and the office staff were very kind, professional and attentive to my issue, which deserves a 5 star review.
The MRI, x-rays and the consultation were reasonably priced.
Google
I couldn't recommend this clinic more!
In addition to achieving my desired results, the clinic and doctor were constantly in touch with me (both in person and by phone) and responded quickly to any questions or concerns I had. This gave me peace of mind and made the process feel much easier, while giving me confidence in it.
Google
Challenging or mild conditions require the type of specific attention provided! Dr. Mesut Sancmis Ortopedi and his entire staff are highly knowledgeable and solution focused! It is incredible to witness the difference their patient care delivers. Do you have back pain, shoulder issues, orthopedic problems, here’s your source for these and MUCH more! Please don’t hesitate to book your 1st consultation to start on the path of healing!
Google
The staff / ladies at the clinic are very professional, friendly and cute,,,, nothing is too much trouble.
Dr Mesut is also very Professional and knowledgeable, and if his treatment works successfully, which i have no doubt about, I will return annually for check overs / mot.
If not I will return just once,,,, for a refund 😂🤣
Seriously he is very very good, i totally recommend him and his team and I have experienced hospitals / clinics all over the world due to my previous life racing Speedway,,,, tge racing was fine,,,, the crashes were the problem.
01 / 14
Ratings as shown on each platform on 15 October 2026. Reviews cover a range of treatments and are the opinions of individual patients.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Antalya
Ask the team about accommodation at Ramada Plaza Antalya and the arrangements relevant to your planned stay.CONFIRM: partnership
Ramada Plaza AntalyaPartner hotel · on the cliffs, next to the old town
~10 minto the clinic
On sitesea platform
~20 minfrom the airport
Distances are approximate.CONFIRM
Everything set up for recovery
Accessible roomSpace for crutches and a wheelchair
No. Arthroscopy treats selected structures within the existing joint. Replacement resurfaces damaged joint surfaces with artificial components and addresses a different level of joint disease.
Will Small Incisions Mean a Quick Recovery?
Not necessarily. The tissue repaired inside the knee determines the recovery demands. A major ligament or cartilage procedure can require months of rehabilitation despite small wounds.
Can I Walk Immediately Afterwards?
Some procedures allow early weight-bearing, while others require protection. Use the instructions issued for your operation rather than another patient's experience.
Will I Need Physiotherapy?
Rehabilitation is commonly part of recovery. The amount of supervised therapy and home exercise depends on the procedure, your initial function and the progress made.
