An arthroscopy is a type of keyhole surgery used both to diagnose and treat problems with joints. An arthroscopy involves the use of a device called an arthroscope to examine the joints. This is a thin, metal tube about the length and width of a drinking straw that contains a light source and a camera. Images are sent from the arthroscope to a video screen or an eyepiece, so the surgeon is able to see inside the joint. It\u2019s also possible for tiny surgical instruments to be used alongside an arthroscope to allow the surgeon to treat certain joint conditions.<\/p>\n
As the equipment used during an arthroscopy is so small, only minor cuts need to be made in the skin. This means the procedure has some potential advantages over traditional, \u201copen\u201d surgery, including:<\/p>\n
\u2022 less pain after the operation
\n\u2022 faster healing time
\n\u2022 lower risk of infection
\n\u2022 you can often go home the same day
\n\u2022 you may be able to return to normal activities more quickly<\/p>\n
An arthroscopy might be recommended if you have problems such as persistent joint pain, swelling or stiffness, and scans have not been able to identify the cause. An arthroscopy can also be used to treat a range of joint problems and conditions. For example, it can be used to:<\/p>\n
\u2022 repair damaged cartilage
\n\u2022 remove fragments of loose bone or cartilage
\n\u2022 drain away any excess fluid
\n\u2022 treat conditions such as arthritis<\/p>\n
The arthroscope is inserted through a small cut in the skin made next to the joint. Further small incisions may also be made to allow an examining probe or surgical instruments to be inserted. Your surgeon will then examine the inside of the joint using the arthroscope and, if necessary, remove or repair any problem areas. This will usually be done under general anaesthetic, although sometimes a spinal or local anaesthetic is used.<\/p>\n
The procedure is usually performed as a day case, which means you\u2019ll normally be able to go home on the same day as the surgery.<\/p>\n
The time it takes to recover from an arthroscopy can vary, depending on the joint involved and the specific procedure you had. It\u2019s often possible to return to work and light, physical activities within a few weeks, but more demanding physical activities such as lifting and sport may not be possible for several months.<\/p>\n
Your surgeon or care team will advise you how long it\u2019s likely to take to fully recover and what activities you should avoid until you\u2019re feeling better. While you\u2019re recovering, you should contact your surgical team or GP for advice if you think you may have developed one of the complications mentioned below.<\/p>\n
An arthroscopy is generally considered to be a safe procedure, but like all types of surgery it does carry some risks. It\u2019s normal to experience short-lived problems such as swelling, bruising, stiffness and discomfort after an arthroscopy. These will usually improve during the days or weeks following the procedure.<\/p>\n<\/div>
Discussion with Nadim is important to answer any questions that you may have. For information about any additional conditions not featured within the site, please contact us for more information.<\/p>\n<\/div>