Arthroscopy - Overview

Definition of Arthroscopy:

Arthroscopy is surgery that is done using a tiny camera on the end of a tube to check for and treat joint problems.

See also:

• Knee arthroscopy
• Rotator cuff repair
• Shoulder arthroscopy

Description:

This procedure is typically done on the knee, hip, ankle, shoulder, elbow, or wrist.

Three different types of anesthesia (pain management) may be used for arthroscopy surgery:

• General anesthesia. You will be unconscious and unable to feel pain.
• Painkilling medicine. Your joint may be numbed, and you may be given medicines that relax you. You will stay awake.
• Spinal anesthesia. This is also called regional anesthesia. The painkilling medicine is injected into a space in your spine. You will be awake but will not be able to feel anything below your waist.

The area is cleaned and a pressure band (tourniquet) may be applied to restrict blood flow. The health care provider will then make a surgical cut into the joint. Sterile fluid is passed through the joint space to expand the joint and provide a better view.

Next, a tool called an arthroscope is inserted into the area. An arthroscope consists of a tiny tube, a lens, and a light source. It allows the surgeon to look for joint damage or disease.

Images of the inside of the joint are displayed on a monitor. One or two other surgical cuts may be needed so the doctor can use other instruments to remove bits of cartilage or bone, take a tissue biopsy, or perform other minor surgery. In addition, ligament repairs can be done using the arthroscope.

Indications:

A number of different injuries and diseases may cause joint pain or problems.

Arthroscopy may be needed to:

• Diagnose the cause of joint pain after an injury
• Perform carpal tunnel surgery
• Remove loose bone or cartilage fragments in the joint
• Remove the lining of the joint. This lining is called the synovium, and it may become swollen or inflamed from arthritis.
• Repair a torn ligament or tendon
• Repair damaged cartilage or meniscus (the piece of cartilage that cushions the knee joint area)