Arthroscopy is a procedure for diagnosing and treating 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 your joint is transmitted to a high-definition video monitor. Arthroscopy allows the surgeon to see inside your joint without making a large incision. Surgeons can even repair some types of joint damage during arthroscopy, with pencil-thin surgical instruments inserted through additional small incisions. Doctors use arthroscopy to help diagnose and treat a variety of joint conditions, most commonly those affecting the Knee,Shoulder, Ankle, Hip, Waist and elbow.
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 one to three 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 will review the findings of the arthroscopy with you as soon as possible and may send a written report. Your surgeon will continue to monitor your progress in follow-up visits and address problems.
