Knee Surgery in Singapore
Knee pain and instability can make it difficult to walk, climb stairs, train, or return to your usual activities. Causes include sports injuries, gradual wear and tear, and structural problems.
Dr Toon Dong Hao is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon at Pinnacle Orthopaedic Group, with subspecialty experience in knee and sports surgery. His focus includes arthroscopic procedures, ligament reconstruction, and joint preservation.
Common Knee Procedures Performed
Dr Toon Dong Hao recommends knee surgery based on the diagnosis, severity of the condition and individual treatment goals. He will explain the available procedures and discuss the most appropriate approach.
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique that uses a small camera and specialised instruments to examine and treat problems inside the knee joint.
It may be used to treat selected meniscus tears, cartilage injuries and other joint conditions. The technique allows surgeons to perform procedures through small incisions, reducing disruption to surrounding tissues and minimising scarring.
Recovery depends on the treatment performed and may involve physiotherapy to restore knee movement and strength.
ACL and knee ligament reconstruction may be recommended when a significant ligament tear causes instability, particularly in patients who wish to return to sports involving sudden turns or changes in direction.
The procedure involves using a graft to reconstruct the torn ligament and restore knee stability. Other knee ligaments may require repair or reconstruction depending on the injury.
The aim is to improve joint stability and support a safe return to physical activity. Recovery involves structured rehabilitation over several months to regain strength, movement and knee function.
Meniscus surgery may be recommended when a tear causes persistent pain, locking or limited movement that does not improve with non-surgical care.
Two approaches may be considered:
- Meniscus repair: Stitches are used to repair the torn tissue, preserving the meniscus and its role in cushioning the knee.
- Partial meniscectomy: The damaged portion is removed when repair is not suitable, while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Most procedures are performed arthroscopically (keyhole surgery). Recovery depends on the procedure, with meniscus repair generally requiring a longer rehabilitation period to allow the tissue to heal.
Cartilage repair procedures aim to treat damaged cartilage and improve joint function. They are generally more suitable for localised cartilage damage than widespread joint wear.
Depending on the size and location of the damage, surgery may involve techniques that stimulate new cartilage formation or restore the damaged joint surface. The approach also considers the patient’s age and activity level.
Recovery typically involves a period of restricted weight-bearing and rehabilitation, depending on the procedure performed.
Knee osteotomy is a joint-preserving procedure that realigns the leg to redistribute pressure away from a damaged area of the knee.
It may be recommended for selected patients with early or localised knee arthritis, particularly when uneven joint alignment contributes to pain.
The procedure involves cutting and repositioning the bone to improve alignment. By shifting pressure towards healthier parts of the joint, it aims to relieve pain, improve function and potentially delay knee replacement surgery.
Recovery involves bone healing and a structured rehabilitation programme over several months.
Not Sure Which Procedure Is Right for You?
A consultation with Dr Toon Dong Hao helps you understand your condition and the treatment options available, so you can decide on the next steps.
Meet Dr Toon Dong Hao
Dr Toon Dong Hao is a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in sports injuries, shoulder and elbow conditions, and knee surgery.
Professional Highlights
- Advanced Fellowship Training: Shoulder and Elbow Surgery in Sydney, Australia, under the MOH HMDP Scholarship.
- Shoulder & Elbow Surgery: Performs rotator cuff repair, shoulder stabilisation, and shoulder and elbow replacement.
- Advanced Arthroscopic Surgery: Among the early surgeons in Singapore to perform all-arthroscopic muscle advancement for irreparable rotator cuff tears.
- Sports & Knee Surgery: Skilled in ligament reconstruction, meniscus and cartilage repair, and knee preservation procedures, including osteotomy.
- Orthopaedic Trauma & Fractures: Management of fractures and traumatic orthopaedic injuries.
What to Expect at Your Consultation
Your consultation focuses on understanding your symptoms, examining your knee, and discussing your options. Surgery is not always necessary, and treatment depends on your condition and goals.
Clinical examination
Assessment of movement, stability, and alignment
Imaging review
Existing scans reviewed; further imaging arranged if needed
Discussion of options
Non-surgical and surgical options explained with expected outcomes
Personalised plan
Recommendations and next steps based on your condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about knee surgery, recovery, and treatment options.
Not all ACL or meniscus tears require surgery. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury, knee stability, symptoms and activity goals. Some patients improve with physiotherapy, while others may require surgical treatment.
Recovery depends on the procedure performed and the extent of the injury. Some patients resume light activities within weeks, while ligament reconstruction, meniscus repair and osteotomy may require several months of rehabilitation.
Potential risks include infection, bleeding, blood clots, stiffness and nerve injury. Specific risks vary depending on the procedure. Dr Toon will explain the relevant risks and benefits before surgery.
Physiotherapy is commonly recommended after knee surgery to restore movement, strength and stability. The rehabilitation programme depends on the procedure performed and your recovery progress.
The timeline varies depending on the surgery and rehabilitation progress. Some procedures allow an earlier return to activity, while ACL reconstruction and certain cartilage or meniscus repairs may require several months before returning to sports.
Insurance Panels
We work with selected corporate insurance providers and Integrated Shield Plan insurers. Coverage varies according to your policy and treatment. Our team can assist with insurance enquiries before your appointment.
Corporate Panel
Private Integrated Shield Plan
Book a Consultation for Knee Surgery in Singapore
If you have ongoing knee pain or instability, or have been advised to consider surgery, consult Dr Toon Dong Hao to understand your condition and the treatment options available.
Clinic Locations & Contact
For appointments or enquiries, please complete the form below. Our team will be in touch.
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Opening Hours
8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Closed
Pinnacle Orthopaedic Group (Orchard)
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
3 Mount Elizabeth #04-07
Singapore 228510
Pinnacle Orthopaedic Group (Novena)
Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
38 Irrawaddy Road #04-26
Singapore 329563
Pinnacle Orthopaedic Group (East)
Parkway East Medical Centre
319 Joo Chiat Place #03-05
Singapore 427989
Pinnacle Orthopaedic Group (Alvernia)
Mount Alvernia Medical Centre Block D
820 Thomson Road #05-55
Singapore 574623