Arthroscopy
About this test
Arthroscopy (ahr-THROS-kuh-pee) is a procedure that uses a fiber-optic camera to diagnose and treat joint problems. A surgeon inserts a narrow tube attached to a fiber-optic video camera through a small incision — about the size of a buttonhole. The view inside the joint is transmitted to a high-definition video monitor.
Why it's done
Orthopedic surgeons use arthroscopy to help diagnose and treat a variety of joint conditions, most commonly those affecting the: Knee. Shoulder. Elbow. Ankle. Hip. Wrist.
Risks and complications
Arthroscopy is a very safe procedure and complications are not common. Problems may include: Tissue or nerve damage. The placement and movement of the instruments within the joint can damage the joint's structures. Infection. Any type of invasive surgery carries a risk of infection. But risk of infection from arthroscopy is lower than infection risk from open incision surgery. Blood clots. Rarely, a procedure that lasts longer than an hour can increase the risk of blood clots developing in the legs or lungs.
How to prepare
Exact preparations depend on which of your joints the surgeon is examining or repairing. In general, you should: Avoid certain medicines. Your healthcare team may want you to avoid taking medicines or dietary supplements that can increase your risk of bleeding. Fast beforehand. Depending on the type of anesthesia you'll have, you may need to avoid eating solid foods eight hours before starting your procedure. Arrange for a ride. You won't be allowed to drive yourself home after the procedure, so make sure someone will be available to pick you up. If you live alone, ask someone to check on you that evening or, ideally, stay with you the rest of the day. Choose loose clothing. Wear loose, comfortable clothing — gym shorts, for example, if you're having knee arthroscopy — so that you can dress easily after the procedure.
What to expect
Although the experience varies depending on why you're having the procedure and which joint is involved, some aspects of arthroscopy are fairly standard. You'll remove your street clothes and jewelry and put on a hospital gown or shorts. A healthcare team member will place an IV into a vein in your hand or forearm and inject a medicine to help you feel calm or less anxious, called a sedative.
Understanding your results
Talk with your surgeon or surgical team to find out when you can resume activities. In general, you should be able to resume desk work and light activity in a few days. You'll likely be able to drive again in 1 to 4 weeks and engage in more-strenuous activity a few weeks after that. However, not everyone's recovery is the same. Your situation might dictate a longer recovery period and rehabilitation. Your surgeon or surgical team will review the findings of the arthroscopy with you as soon as possible. Your surgical team also will keep monitoring your progress in follow-up visits and address any potential problems.
Disclaimer: August is a health information platform and its responses don't constitute medical advise. Always consult with a licenced medical professional near you before making any changes.