How arthroscopy works
A thin camera is passed into the joint through a small cut, and fine instruments through one or two more. Dr East sees the inside of the joint on a screen in high definition, which allows both an accurate diagnosis and treatment in the same sitting.
Because the joint capsule and surrounding muscle are barely disturbed, there is less bleeding, less scarring and a shorter recovery than with a conventional open procedure.
What it is used for
- Knee: meniscus repair, ligament reconstruction, removal of loose bodies, cartilage procedures.
- Ankle: impingement, loose bodies, cartilage injuries and ligament stabilisation.
- Hip: labral tears and femoroacetabular impingement in active adults.
- Wrist: assessment of ligament and cartilage injuries, and treatment of selected tears.
After the procedure
Most arthroscopies are day cases. You will have a few small dressings and can usually put weight through the joint straight away, unless a repair needs protecting. Physiotherapy starts within days.