What is arthroscopy?

 

Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that orthopedic surgeons use to visualize, diagnose and treat problems inside of a joint. The word arthroscopy comes from the Greek words, “arthro” (joint) and “skopein” (to look).  The term  literally means “to look within the joint”.

 

In an arthroscopic examination, Dr. Gill makes a small incision in the patient’s skin and inserts pencil-sized instruments that contain a small lens and lighting system to magnify and illuminate the structures inside

the joint. Light is transmitted through fiber optics to the end of the arthroscope that is inserted into the joint.  By attaching the arthroscope to a miniature camera, Dr. Gill is able to see the interior of the joint

through this very small incision rather than the large incision needed for conventional “open” surgery.

 

The television camera attached to the arthroscope displays the image of the joint on a television screen, allowing Dr. Gill to look throughout the entire joint. Dr. Gill can determine the amount and type of injury, and then repair or correct the problem, if it is necessary.

 

Why is arthroscopy necessary?

 

Diagnosing joint injuries and disease begins with a thorough medical history, physical examination, and usually X-rays.  Additional tests such as MRI or CT scan also may be needed.  Through the arthroscope, a final diagnosis is made which may be more accurate.

 

Disease and injuries can damage bones, cartilage, ligaments, muscles and tendons.  Some of the most frequent conditions found during arthroscopic examination of joints are:

• Inflammation

Synovitis—inflamed lining (synovium) in knee, shoulder, elbow or ankle.

• Injury – acute and chronic

Shoulder – rotator cuff tendon tears, labral tear, impingement syndrome, and recurrent dislocations.

Knee – meniscal (cartilage) tears, chondromalacia (wearing or injury of cartilage cushion), and anterior cruciate ligament tears with instability.

• Loose bodies of bone and/or cartilage

knee, shoulder, ankle and elbow