Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to examine, diagnose and, when appropriate, treat problems inside a joint. Often described as keyhole joint surgery, the procedure uses a small camera called an arthroscope that is inserted through a small incision near the joint. The camera projects images onto a screen, allowing the orthopaedic surgeon to assess the joint and determine whether damaged tissues require treatment.

Arthroscopy is commonly performed on the knee and shoulder, and may also be used for conditions affecting the hip, ankle, wrist and elbow. Depending on the underlying problem, arthroscopic surgery may be considered for certain sports injuries, cartilage damage, ligament or meniscus tears, persistent joint symptoms and other conditions affecting joint function.

What Is Arthroscopy?

During an arthroscopy procedure, the surgeon makes one or more small incisions around the affected joint and inserts the arthroscope, which contains a light and camera. Additional small instruments can be introduced when treatment is required. The surgeon may be able to repair or remove damaged tissue, address certain cartilage or ligament problems, or wash out loose or damaged tissue depending on the condition being treated.

Because arthroscopy uses small incisions rather than the larger incision associated with many traditional open procedures, it is generally considered a minimally invasive approach. However, the appropriate surgical technique depends on the joint condition, extent of damage and the patient's individual circumstances.

When Is Arthroscopy Recommended?

An orthopaedic specialist may consider arthroscopy surgery when joint symptoms require further evaluation or when a suitable problem can be treated arthroscopically. Symptoms that may lead to an assessment include:

• Persistent joint pain
• Joint swelling or stiffness
• A joint that locks or catches
• Feeling that a joint is giving way
• Sports-related joint injuries
• Suspected cartilage or meniscus damage
• Certain ligament injuries
• Joint problems that have not been adequately explained by other examinations or imaging

Arthroscopy is not appropriate for every joint condition. Your orthopaedic specialist will assess your symptoms, medical history and diagnostic findings before recommending the most suitable treatment.

Types of Arthroscopy

The procedure can be performed on several joints, with the exact technique depending on the condition being treated.

Knee Arthroscopy
Knee arthroscopy is one of the most frequently performed forms of arthroscopy. It may be used to evaluate or treat selected problems involving structures such as the meniscus, cartilage and ligaments.

Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy allows an orthopaedic surgeon to examine structures within the shoulder joint and, when indicated, perform procedures through small incisions. It may be used as part of treatment for selected shoulder injuries and conditions.

Hip Arthroscopy
Hip arthroscopy can be used to examine and treat certain problems affecting the hip joint and surrounding structures.

Ankle, Wrist and Elbow Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy may also be used in the ankle, wrist and elbow when a minimally invasive approach is appropriate for the patient's particular joint problem.

What Happens During Arthroscopy?

Before surgery, your medical team will review your health history, medications and any instructions related to eating, drinking and anaesthesia. The type of anaesthesia depends on factors such as the joint being treated, the planned procedure and your overall health.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions around the joint and inserts the arthroscope. The internal images are displayed on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to examine the joint. If treatment is required and appropriate, specialised instruments can be inserted through additional small openings to perform the necessary procedure.

The duration varies according to the joint and type of treatment. An arthroscopy may take approximately 30 minutes to 2 hours, although more complex procedures can require different operating times.

Benefits of Arthroscopic Surgery

For appropriately selected patients, arthroscopy can provide a minimally invasive way to diagnose and treat certain joint problems. Potential advantages may include:

• Small surgical incisions
• Direct visual assessment of the joint
• Ability to diagnose and treat certain problems during the same procedure
• Generally less disruption to surrounding tissues than many open procedures
• Recovery that may be quicker than some traditional open operations, depending on the procedure performed

However, the benefits and expected recovery differ significantly between patients. Arthroscopy should be recommended based on the specific joint condition rather than simply because it is a minimally invasive procedure.

Arthroscopy Recovery

Arthroscopy recovery depends on the joint treated, the procedure performed, your general health and the physical demands of your daily activities or occupation. Some people resume routine activities relatively quickly, while procedures involving joint repair may require a longer rehabilitation period.

Pain, stiffness and swelling can occur after surgery. Your surgeon may recommend specific exercises or physiotherapy to restore movement, strength and function. Depending on the procedure, you may temporarily need crutches, a sling or other support.

Returning to work, driving, exercise and sports should be based on your surgeon's advice and your ability to use the affected joint safely. Recovery can range from around a week to several months, depending on the type of arthroscopy and treatment performed.

Risks and Possible Complications

Although arthroscopy is commonly performed, it is still a surgical procedure and carries potential risks. Possible complications include infection, bleeding or swelling, blood clots, nerve or blood-vessel injury and problems related to anaesthesia. These complications are generally uncommon, but individual risk varies according to the procedure and the patient's health.

Your surgeon should explain the potential risks, expected benefits and available alternatives before surgery so that you can make an informed decision.

Preparing for Arthroscopy

Preparation depends on the planned procedure and type of anaesthesia. You may be asked to attend a pre-operative assessment and provide information about your existing medical conditions and medicines. You should follow the surgical team's instructions regarding eating and drinking, medications and arrangements for returning home after the procedure.

If you are having general anaesthesia, you will generally need someone to take you home and may need another adult to stay with you for a period afterward. Your care team will provide specific instructions based on your procedure.

When Should You Consult an Orthopaedic Specialist?

Consider an orthopaedic evaluation if you have ongoing joint pain, swelling, stiffness, locking, instability or reduced movement, particularly when symptoms persist despite appropriate non-surgical care or follow an injury.

An evaluation can help determine whether arthroscopy is appropriate or whether another treatment—such as physiotherapy, medication, injections or a different surgical procedure—would be more suitable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arthroscopy

Is arthroscopy a major surgery?
Arthroscopy is minimally invasive, but it is still surgery. Its complexity and recovery requirements depend on the joint and the treatment performed.

How long does it take to recover from arthroscopy?
Recovery varies considerably. Some patients return to routine activities within days, while others need several weeks or months, particularly when a repair is performed.

Is arthroscopy only performed on the knee?
No. Although knee arthroscopy is common, the technique can also be used for the shoulder, hip, ankle, wrist and elbow.

Can arthroscopy diagnose and treat a joint problem?
Yes. Arthroscopy can allow direct examination of the joint and, when appropriate, treatment of certain types of joint damage during the same procedure.

Will I need physiotherapy after arthroscopy?
Physiotherapy or a structured exercise programme may be recommended depending on the procedure and your recovery needs. Rehabilitation is often important for restoring joint movement and strength.