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Emma B

What Is the Purpose of An Arthroscopy?

Updated: Apr 6, 2023

An arthroscopy is a diagnostic tool used by surgeons to visually examine the inside of a joint. It is also used to treat certain conditions within the joint.

The surgeon can see the inside of the joint on a television screen and can diagnose and treat a number of conditions. Arthroscopy is a relatively new surgical procedure and has become increasingly popular due to its many advantages. Some of these advantages include less pain, shorter hospital stays, and a quicker recovery.



A diagnostic tool?


Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows doctors to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint. The word “arthroscopy” comes from two Greek words: “arthro” (meaning joint) and “skopein” (meaning to look).

Arthroscopy is a versatile procedure that can be used to treat a wide variety of problems affecting the joints, including:

-Inflammation

-Infection

-Tumours

-Debris

-Calcification

Arthroscopy is also an effective diagnostic tool, allowing doctors to obtain a clear view of the inside of a joint without having to make a large incision. This is especially helpful when trying to determine the cause of joint pain or dysfunction.


What happens during the procedure?


An arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that is performed using an arthroscope, a small telescope-like instrument. The arthroscope is inserted into the joint through a small incision. This allows the surgeon to see the inside of the joint and repair any damage that is present.

The arthroscope is connected to a camera, which allows the surgeon to see the inside of the joint on a monitor. The surgeon can then make any necessary repairs, such as removing damaged tissue or repairing a torn ligament.

After the procedure is completed, the incisions are closed with stitches or staples and the joint is covered with a dressing. The dressing will need to be removed within a few days and the stitches or staples will be removed within a week or two.


What are the benefits?


An arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is used to diagnose and treat problems within the joints. The most common type of arthroscopy is knee arthroscopy, but the procedure can also be performed on the shoulder, elbow, hip, and ankle.

Arthroscopy has a number of potential benefits, including a shorter hospital stay, less pain, and a quicker recovery. The procedure can also be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, such as injuries, arthritis, and degenerative joint disease.


What will recovery be like?


After having an arthroscopy, it is important to follow the instructions given to you by your doctor in order to have a successful recovery. Depending on the type of surgery you had, you may be instructed to keep your joint iced, elevate it, and take pain medication. You will likely also be given physical therapy exercises to help you regain range of motion and strength in your joint.

It is important to follow your doctor's orders and attend all of your physical therapy appointments in order to have the best possible outcome. Recovery after an arthroscopy can take several weeks or even months, but eventually, you


Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic tool used to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint. The procedure is quick and relatively painless, and it can be done on an outpatient basis. Here at MSK doctors, we offer arthroscopy.

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