What is an arthroscopy?

‍
‘Arthro’ means joint and ‘scope’ is to look at. Therefore a knee arthroscopy allows the surgeon to view inside your knee and directly inspect the bone and structures within. This gives a much more accurate picture than any other investigation such as x-ray or MRI.

‍
Arthroscopy is commonly known as ‘keyhole surgery’ as the incisions are minimal and therefore reduce scarring and allow quicker recovery. Prior to the advent of the arthroscope, such operations would mean a full open operation with extensive scarring etc.

‍
During an arthroscopy a small camera-type device is inserted into the knee and this relays pictures to a television screen. At the same time instruments can be inserted into the knee so that surgery can be performed e.g. removing a portion of meniscus (“cartilage”).

‍

Information Sheet

‍