Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy helps your surgeon at Montage Orthopedics and Sports Medicine find and treat joint problems. Your surgeon makes a small incision and inserts a thin tube with a light and camera. This tool, called an arthroscope, shows the inside of your joint on a screen.
The procedure is less invasive than traditional surgery. So, you go home the same day and recover sooner.
What can arthroscopy treat?
Your surgeon may recommend arthroscopy for:
- Joint swelling, stiffness, or scar tissue
- Torn cartilage, ligaments, or tendons
- Loose bone fragments
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
How to prepare for arthroscopy
Before treatment, you’ll receive instructions to:
- Arrange for a ride home. You can’t drive after sedation or anesthesia
- Tell your surgeon about any medications. You might need to stop taking some medicines and/or over-the-counter pills before surgery
- Follow fasting instructions. Depending on the type of anesthesia, you may need to avoid food and drinks for at least 8 hours before surgery
If you need to take any other steps, your surgeon will tell you.
What happens during arthroscopy?
Before the procedure, you may receive:
- Local anesthesia — Numbs a small area, like a knee or elbow
- Regional anesthesia — Numbs the lower half of your body while you stay awake
- General anesthesia — Makes you sleep for the procedure
Once the anesthesia takes effect, your surgeon makes a small incision and inserts the scope. If they find a problem, you may receive treatment right away. Afterward, the surgeon closes the incision with stitches.
Recovery after arthroscopy
You may have some swelling and pain right after surgery. Your doctor may suggest:
- Pain medicine to help with discomfort
- Ice and elevation to reduce swelling
- Gentle exercises to help strengthen the joint
You’ll likely return to work or school in a few days. You can usually drive again within a week. Athletes may need a few weeks before returning to full activity. Your total recovery time depends on the type of procedure you have.
Understand the risks
Like any medical procedure, arthroscopy carries some health risks, such as bleeding or infection. Talk to your surgeon about the:
- Potential benefits and risks
- Risk level based on your health, age, and other factors
- Ways your care team works to keep you safe
- What you can do to improve your outcome
