Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a camera is inserted into the joint through small incisions to visualize and manipulate the joint.

Indications:

  •  Diagnosis and treatment of meniscus injuries
  •  Repair of a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)
  •  Removal of loose bodies in a joint
  •  Treatment of synovitis (inflammation of the synovial membrane)
  •  Assessment and treatment of arthritis

Procedure:

  •  Preparatory stage: The patient receives local or general anesthesia.
  •  Arthroscope insertion: Small incisions are made under the skin, and an arthroscope is inserted into the joint, which transmits the image to the monitor in the operating room.
  •  Diagnosis and treatment: The surgeon examines the joint for damage, tears, or abnormal tissue growth. Then the necessary manipulations are performed, such as repairing ruptures or removing loose bodies.
  •  Completion of the operation: The images from the arthroscope are used to control the manipulation, after which the arthroscope is removed and the incisions are sutured.

Advantages:

  • Minimally invasive
  •  Less pain and scars
  •  Shorter recovery time
  •  Allows you to inspect hard-to-reach areas of the joint

Risks:

  •  Infection
  •  The bleeding
  •  Nerve or vascular damage
  •  Damage to cartilage or bone

Recovery:

After arthroscopy, the patient is usually put a splint or brace on the joint and advised to limit activity. The recovery time depends on the severity of the procedure and the individual characteristics of the patient.