Arthroscopy: What It Is, Procedure, and Recovery

Introduction

Arthroscopy (ahr-THROS-kuh-pee) is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a small fibre-optic camera (arthroscope) to diagnose and treat joint problems (for example, the knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, elbow, or wrist). These procedures are often performed in day hospitals and, compared to traditional “open” surgery, arthroscopy typically means faster recovery, less pain, and smaller scars.

What Is Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy (a specific type of endoscopy) allows the surgeon to look inside a joint through a small incision and guide minimally invasive repairs. The arthroscope transmits light and video images, enabling detailed visualisation without fully opening the joint. Surgeons can even repair some types of joint damage during arthroscopy, with pencil-thin surgical instruments inserted through additional small incisions.

Common joints treated through arthroscopy include:

• Knee
• Shoulder
• Hip
• Ankle
• Elbow
• Wrist

Common conditions addressed with arthroscopy:

• Cartilage tears (meniscus, labral)
• Joint impingement (caused by the friction of joint tissues)
• Joint instability
• Ligament injuries
• Synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining)
• Nerve compression (e.g. carpal tunnel)

How Arthroscopy Is Performed

Preoperative Preparation

• If performed in a day hospital, patients will return home the same day.
• Patients must arrange transportation home, as anaesthesia is required.
• Before surgery, standard health screenings are conducted.
• Some medications and supplements may need to be paused; this should be discussed with your surgeon.
• Typically, patients fast (no solid food) the night before. Depending on the time of your surgery and the anaesthesia used, your doctor will inform you on how and when you should start fasting.
• When you are being admitted, for your own health and safety, please be honest about your last meal, medications, etc.

During Surgery

1. Anaesthesia is given (local or general).
2. The surgeon makes a tiny incision (often under 1 cm).
3. The joint is distended (e.g. by fluid) to create working space.
4. The arthroscope is inserted, and the surgeon inspects the joint’s interior via projected video.
5. Additional small incisions allow instrument access.
6. The surgeon performs the required repairs or removals (e.g. trimming damaged tissue, repairing tears, removing loose fragments).
7. Incisions are closed with stitches or tape.

Most arthroscopic procedures take about 1–2 hours. Afterwards, patients spend time in recovery while the anaesthesia effects wear off.

Benefits

Benefits compared to open surgery:

• Quicker return to daily activities
• Less postoperative pain
• Lower blood loss
• Smaller scars
• Fewer complications (in many cases)

Recovery & Outlook*

Back in the ward:

• You may experience pain post-operatively; analgesics will be given as prescribed.
• A drain may be inserted, and you will be shown how to empty it, or it will be removed prior to discharge, depending on the doctor’s preference.
• You will have small incisions, covered with a waterproof dressing and a soft bandage.
• Someone will have to drive you home, as you cannot drive for 24 hours after anaesthetics.
• A physiotherapist might come and visit you as per the doctor’s instructions.

At home:

• Use pain medication as prescribed.
• You may mobilise within your pain limit and your doctor’s specifications.
• Keep the limb elevated and apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
• It is recommended that you do the exercises given to you by the doctor/physiotherapist.

Wound care:

• Keep dressings closed for 5-7 days or as prescribed by your doctor.
• If your dressings get wet or come off, clean your wounds with lukewarm salt water and replace the dressing.

When to call your doctor:

If you have any of the following symptoms, please call your doctor urgently.

• A high temperature/fever
• Severe or increasing pain
• Severe/increasing redness or swelling around your wound
• Discoloured/foul-smelling discharge from your wounds
• Numbness/tingling

Rehabilitation

Early, controlled joint movement is important to prevent stiffness. Rehabilitation may include:

• Home exercises prescribed by the surgical team
• Physical therapy sessions
• Gradual return to weight-bearing and function

Duration of Recovery

Though arthroscopy typically allows for a faster recovery than open surgery, the rehabilitation phase can last several weeks or months, depending on:

• Which joint was treated
• The complexity of the repair
• The patient’s overall health and compliance

*This information is for educational purposes only; it has not been designed to replace a physician’s instructions or consultation.

Final Thoughts

Arthroscopy offers a less invasive option for diagnosing and treating many joint issues. Because it depends on specialised tools and training, not all surgeons offer arthroscopic procedures—but where available, it often leads to better outcomes and quicker recoveries. As surgical techniques and equipment evolve, arthroscopy continues to advance, providing patients with more effective, less disruptive care.

If you’re experiencing joint pain or dysfunction and considering surgery, arthroscopy may be a viable option. Speak with your orthopaedic or joint specialist to determine if arthroscopic intervention is appropriate in your case.

Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21801-arthroscopy

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9652500

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/arthroscopy/about/pac-20392974