Knee arthroscopy wound care
Wound care plan after knee arthroscopy: dressings, elevation, ice, anti-inflammatories and when to contact the rooms.
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Download the practice's own guide for knee arthroscopy wound care to print, save to your phone or share with your physiotherapist.
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Section 01
Dressings, ice and positioning
- Debulk (remove) outer dressing after 24 hours.
- When resting and sleeping — elevate on a pillow.
- Ice the knee every 2 hours for 10 – 15 minutes, until the swelling goes. Remember that ice works up to 6 weeks after surgery.
- You can use anti-inflammatories in the immediate post-op period (first 2 – 3 weeks) to get the swelling down, unless specifically advised not to.
Section 02
If a dressing comes off
- If the inner sterile dressings (waterproof) get loose or wet (or both!), you can change them yourself with some padded tegaderm or padded opsite dressings from the chemist.
Section 03
When to contact the rooms
- If you have any concerns, check with your GP first but don't hesitate to contact the rooms — 0490 907 573 or physio@eastcoastortho.com.au.
Last reviewed: 2025-10-15.
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Have questions about your recovery?
Every patient is different. If you would like a tailored plan or need to clarify any of these instructions, book an appointment with the East Coast Orthopaedic Physiotherapy team.
General guide only. These resources are intended as a general guide. Please follow the instructions of your treating surgeon and physiotherapist — your individual recovery plan may differ.