Arthroscopy

Alternative Names: Arthroscopy - hip; Arthroscopy - wrist; Arthroscopy - ankle

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 of Procedure

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.

Why the Procedure is Performed

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)

Outlook (Prognosis)

After the procedure, the joint will probably be stiff and sore for a few days. Ice is commonly recommended after arthroscopy to help relieve swelling and pain.

You can resume gentle activities, such as walking, immediately. However, using the joint too much may cause swelling and pain, and may increase the chance of injury. Do not restart normal activity for several days or longer.

You may need to make arrangements for work and other responsibilities. Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy.

Depending on your diagnosis, you may have other resrictions or need to do certain exercises.

Risks of Arthroscopy

The risks from surgery are:

• Allergic reactions to medications
• Breathing problems

Other risks from this surgery include:

• Bleeding into the joint
• Blood clot
• Damage to the cartilage, meniscus, or ligaments in the knee
• Infection in the joint
• Injury to a blood vessel or nerve
• Joint stiffness

Knee arthroscopy

Review Date: 7/28/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Unviersity of Washington School of Medicine; and C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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