Arthroscopy

What is arthroscopy

“Arthroscopy” comes from two Greek words, "arthro" (joint) and "skopein" (to look), which means "to look within the joint."

It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure on a joint, in which the examination and treatment is performed using an an endoscope (an arthroscope).

How is it done

Here the surgeon uses a narrow metallic tube which has a small lens and lighting system that helps to give a clear picture of the joint. It is inserted into the joint through a small incision, of the size of a button hole, and is connected to a fiber-optic video camera. The surgeon can then view the interior of the joint on a television screen. Two or more portals are needed- first for arthroscope (viewing portal) and subsequent portals for instrumentation, although they can be interchanged.

When is it recommended

Arthroscopic procedures can be performed for joint evaluation, biopsies or for treatment of many conditions including torn "meniscus", torn surface (articular) cartilage, removal of loose bodies, ligament reconstruction (ACL and PCL in knee), glenoid labrum repair, tendon repair (rotator cuff- shoulder) are amongst many.

Advantages

smaller skin incision
lesser trauma to deeper tissue
less scarring
less pain
reduced recovery time
lower infection rate, and
early return to normal life.