What Is Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy, also termed as arthroscopic surgery, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used by surgeons to examine, diagnose, view and treat wear and tear and traumatic injuries related to the interior of a joint. This procedure is performed using an arthroscope, which is inserted into the joint through a small incision in the patient’s skin. Arthroscopic procedures are usually carried out either to examine and treat a many orthopaedic conditions.

The main advantage of arthroscopy is that the joint is not completely opened like in surgery. This reduces changes of infection, bleeding and hastens recovery. Two small incisions are made to insert the arthroscope and small surgical instruments. The joints are inflated using irrigation fluid to make a surgical space. Arthroscopic Surgeons observe the joint area on a video monitor to diagnose the extent of injury and then repair torn joint tissue, such as ligaments and menisci or cartilage.