What is Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy allows an orthopaedic surgeon to diagnose and treat disorders by providing a clear view of the inside of the joint with small incisions, using a pencil-sized instrument called an arthroscope. Arthroscopy requires only small incisions; patients recover more quickly and with less post-operative pain than with open surgery. In nearly all cases, patients are able to return home the same day as their procedure is performed.
Each year, thousands of people undergo arthroscopic surgery. Performed by a skilled orthopaedic specialist, this innovative procedure can help alleviate pain and improve your quality of life.
The benefits of arthroscopic surgery include the following:
- Less pain following the procedure Quicker recovery
- Lower risk of complications Less scarring
- Shorter hospital stay
The scope allows transmission of an image through a small camera to a television monitor. The image allows the surgeon to thoroughly examine the interior of the joint to determine the source of the problem. During the procedure, the surgeon also can insert surgical instruments through other small incisions in the joint to remove or repair damaged tissues.
With improvements of arthroscopes and higher resolution cameras, the procedure has become highly effective for both the accurate diagnosis and proper treatment of problems within joints.