ARTHROSCOPY–Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat joint problems. A
small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments are inserted through small incisions to view, diagnose, and
treat the joint.

• What Is Arthroscopy?

  • The word "arthroscopy" comes from the Greek words "arthro" (joint) and
    "skopein" (to look).

  • It's widely used for examining and treating issues in joints like the knee, shoulder, hip, elbow,
    wrist, and ankle.

  • Provides a clear view of the joint without the need for large incisions, resulting in faster recovery and
    minimal scarring.

Indications for Arthroscopy

• Diagnostic Uses

  When imaging (e.g., X-rays, MRI, CT scans) does not provide a conclusive diagnosis.

  Persistent joint pain, swelling, or stiffness with unclear cause.

Therapeutic Uses

• Knee Joint:

  Meniscus tears.

  Ligament injuries (e.g., ACL reconstruction).

  Cartilage damage (microfracture or chondroplasty).

  Removal of loose bodies or bone spurs.

  Synovitis.

• Shoulder Joint:

  Rotator cuff tears.

  Shoulder impingement syndrome.

  Labral tears (e.g., SLAP lesions or Bankart lesions in shoulder dislocations).

  Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis).

• Hip Joint:

  Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).

  Labral tears.

  Removal of loose bodies.

• Wrist, Ankle, and Elbow:

  Tendon or ligament repair.

  Removal of loose bodies or bone spurs.

  Joint instability.

• Arthritis Management:

  Debridement of damaged cartilage.

  Diagnostic evaluation to assess the severity.

Procedure

• Preparation:

  Performed under general, spinal, or local anesthesia.

  The area around the joint is cleaned and sterilized.

• Incisions:

  Small incisions (portals) are made near the joint.

  An arthroscope with a camera is inserted into one portal, and surgical instruments through others.

• Inspection and Treatment:

  Saline or sterile fluid is used to distend the joint for better visibility.

  Surgeons inspect the joint and perform necessary repairs or removals.

• Closure:

  Portals are closed with sutures or adhesive strips, and a dressing is applied.

Advantages of Arthroscopy

• Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions, less pain, and reduced scarring.

• Quick Recovery: Faster return to normal activities compared to open surgery.

• High Precision: Direct visualization of the joint for accurate treatment.

• Lower Risk: Reduced chance of infection and complications.

Postoperative Care

• Recovery:

  Most patients are discharged the same day (outpatient surgery).

  Recovery time depends on the joint and the type of repair (e.g., knee arthroscopy recovery may take 4–6 weeks,
  while ligament reconstruction takes longer).

• Rehabilitation:

  Physical therapy is essential to restore strength, range of motion, and joint stability.

  Exercises are tailored to the specific joint and procedure.

• Pain Management:

  Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, NSAIDs).

  Ice application to reduce swelling.

• Activity Restrictions:

  Avoid strenuous activities and follow your surgeon’s guidance for a gradual return to normal activities.

Risks and Complications

• Infection (rare due to small incisions).

• Bleeding or swelling in the joint.

• Blood clots (DVT).

• Damage to surrounding nerves or blood vessels.