Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive, advanced surgical procedure in which an arthroscope is inserted into a joint through a small incision to diagnose and repair torn joint tissue, most commonly in the knee, shoulder, and hip.
The word “arthroscopy” comes from the Greek words *arthro* (meaning “joint”) and *skopein* (meaning “to examine”). At E&B Orthopaedics, our physicians frequently perform arthroscopic surgeries for conditions such as torn ligaments, damaged cartilage, inflamed synovial tissue, and other joint-related injuries. This advanced technique enables our surgeons to carefully inspect the inside of the joint, address the problem, and make necessary repairs without the need for more invasive open surgery.
During arthroscopy, two small incisions (often referred to as “portals”) are made near the affected joint. One portal is used to insert the arthroscope, a small, thin tube equipped with a camera, light, and lenses, which transmits live video images of the inside of the joint to a monitor, The arthroscope allows the surgeon to visualize the joint’s structures, such as cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and bone surfaces. The second portal allows the surgeon to insert specialized surgical instruments to repair the joint as needed. These tools can be used to remove damaged tissue, trim or repair torn cartilage or ligaments, and address other joint issues.
Unlike traditional joint surgery, which requires a large incision and extensive opening of the joint, arthroscopy only requires a few small cuts, resulting in significantly less trauma to the tissues surrounding the joint. This minimally invasive approach offers patients several important benefits, including faster recovery, less postoperative pain, and minimal scarring.
Arthroscopic surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning most patients can go home the same day. It is done under either local, regional, or general anesthesia, depending on the specific joint being treated and the complexity of the procedure.
After surgery, patients are provided with a tailored rehabilitation plan to aid in recovery. This plan often includes physical therapy to restore range of motion, strengthen the joint, and improve overall function. Recovery times vary depending on the type of surgery and the patient’s overall health, but most people return to light activities within a few weeks and can resume more strenuous physical activities within a few months.