What is Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy means “to look inside a joint.” It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure (key-hole surgery) that allows doctors to see inside a joint to diagnose and treat problems safely and effectively.

How is Arthroscopy Performed?
Instead of a large incision like in traditional open surgery, arthroscopy uses a small incision.

A pencil-sized instrument called an arthroscope — equipped with a tiny lens and a light — is inserted into the joint.

Light is transmitted through fiber optics to illuminate the inside of the joint.

A miniature camera attached to the arthroscope sends real-time images to a television screen.

This allows the surgeon to carefully examine structures like cartilage, ligaments, and tendons.

The surgeon can then treat the problem during the same procedure if needed.

When is Arthroscopy Necessary?
After a thorough medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, or CT scan), arthroscopy is performed to make a definitive diagnosis.

It often provides more accurate information than open surgery or imaging alone.

Advantages of Arthroscopy
High accuracy in diagnosing and treating joint problems.

Smaller incisions mean less pain, minimal scarring, and quicker recovery.

Patients can often return to work or sports much sooner compared to traditional surgery.