Arthroscopy (ahr-THROS-skuh-pee) is a special procedure for diagnosing and treating joint problems. The word arthroscopy comes from two Greek words, "arthro" (joint) and "skopein" (to look). The term literally means "to look within the joint." Our orthopedic doctors use arthroscopy to examine a joint and to perform surgery of the knee, hip, wrist, ankle and other joints.
What Patients Can Expect
You'll be placed in the best position for your arthroscopic procedure. It may be on your back, on your stomach or on your side. The limb being worked on will be placed in a positioning device, and a tourniquet may be used to decrease blood loss and make it easier to see inside the joint.
Each incision made will be less than 1/4 inch (7 millimeters) long and can be closed with one or two stitches, or with narrow strips of sterile adhesive tape.
Your arthroscopic surgery will usually take between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the procedure performed.
After Arthroscopic Surgery
In general, you should be able to resume desk work and light activity in a week, and more strenuous activity in about four weeks. Remember, however, that your situation may determine longer recovery period, along with rehabilitation that your doctor will recommend.
