Is It Normal to Hear Clicking Sounds After Knee Surgery?

Is this normal after surgery?

Hello, my friend injured his knee during sports in high school, and since then, his knee joint has been making a cracking sound.
He underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in July of last year, but even after the surgery, he still hears the cracking sound while walking.
Is this normal? Does my friend need to undergo arthroscopic knee surgery again?

Xiao Ke, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/03/30

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

It is still considered normal and does not require further surgery.

Reply Date: 2014/03/30

More Info

After knee surgery, it is not uncommon for patients to experience various sounds, including clicking or popping noises when they move their knee. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors related to the surgical procedure and the healing process.

Firstly, during knee arthroscopy, which is a minimally invasive surgical procedure, the surgeon may remove damaged tissue, repair ligaments, or even clean out loose bodies within the joint. While these interventions can significantly improve function and alleviate pain, they can also lead to changes in the way the knee joint moves. The clicking sounds may arise from the movement of tendons or ligaments over the bones or from the surfaces of the joint itself. This is often referred to as "crepitus," and it can occur even in healthy joints.

Secondly, the presence of scar tissue following surgery can also contribute to these sounds. As the knee heals, scar tissue may form around the surgical site, which can affect the smooth movement of the joint. This can lead to a sensation of tightness or clicking as the knee moves through its range of motion.

It's important to note that while some clicking sounds are normal, they should not be accompanied by pain, swelling, or instability. If your friend is experiencing persistent pain or if the clicking is associated with a feeling of the knee giving way, it may warrant further evaluation. In such cases, a follow-up appointment with the orthopedic surgeon is advisable. The surgeon may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or X-ray, to assess the condition of the knee joint and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Regarding the need for a repeat arthroscopy, it is not automatically indicated just because of the presence of clicking sounds. The decision to undergo another surgery would depend on a comprehensive evaluation of your friend's symptoms, functional limitations, and the overall condition of the knee. If the clicking is not causing any functional impairment or pain, it may be considered a normal part of the healing process.

In summary, while it is common to hear clicking sounds after knee surgery, it is essential to monitor for any accompanying symptoms that may indicate a problem. If your friend is concerned about the sounds or if they are associated with discomfort, it would be prudent to consult with their orthopedic surgeon for further assessment and guidance. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to ensure proper healing and to address any concerns that may arise during the recovery process.

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