Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopy is a procedure for diagnosing and treating joint problems. A surgeon inserts a narrow tube attached to a fiber-optic video camera through a small incision, about the size of a buttonhole. The view inside your joint is transmitted to a high-definition video monitor.

Arthroscopy allows the surgeon to see inside your joint without making a large incision. Surgeons can even repair some types of joint damage during arthroscopy, with pencil-thin surgical instruments inserted through additional small incisions. Doctors use arthroscopy to help diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions.

Arthroscopy Diagnostic & Surgical Procedures

Doctors often turn to arthroscopy if X-rays and other imaging studies have left some diagnostic questions unanswered. Conditions treated with arthroscopy surgically include loose bone fragments, damaged or torn cartilage, inflamed joint linings, torn ligaments, and scarring within joints.

What Are The Risks With Arthroscopic Surgery?

Arthroscopy is a very safe procedure and complications are uncommon. Although rare, problems that may occur with any surgery include tissue or nerve damage, infection, and blood clots.

Results & Recovery From Arthroscopy

In general, you should be able to resume light activity a few days after the procedure. However, not everyone’s recovery is the same. Your situation might dictate a longer recovery period and rehabilitation. Your surgeon should review the findings of the arthroscopy with you as soon as possible. Follow-up visits are common to monitor your progress.