How Does Arthroscopy Work?

To begin the procedure, the doctor will issue a general, spinal, or local anesthetic. Next, a small incision is made in the area. A few other incisions may be needed to view additional parts of the joint or for the doctor to insert more instruments. The surgeon will insert the arthroscope and begin the procedure. 

When initially theorized, arthroscopy was merely a method for doctors to view injured areas of the body. Now, surgeons can perform corrective surgery during the procedure. Before surgery, the doctor will usually indicate whether he or she will also be treating the patient’s condition during arthroscopy. 

The surgeon will use a high-definition monitor to view the arthroscopic camera’s feed and observe the joint, making repairs if necessary. After the procedure, the incision area will be dressed, and the patient is moved to a recovery room. It has been shown that post-operative pain can be less than that of open surgery.

What Will My Doctor Discover?

Before arthroscopy, the doctor will take a look at the patient’s medical history to determine which conditions they may be at risk for. In addition, some surgeons will examine a patient and review imaging in order to determine the problem. Surgeons use arthroscopy for a final diagnosis and validate their initial assumptions. 

Doctors commonly discover inflammation disorders, in the lining of the knee, elbow, wrist, shoulder or ankle. They’re also able to confirm acute or chronic injuries to the shoulder, wrist or knee. Many problems associated with arthritis are also identified during arthroscopy and treated. Meniscal tears or ligament tears may also be visualized and addressed.