What is arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is minimally invasive surgery that allows the surgeon to visualize the entire joint using a TV camera that is placed through a small incision. Additional incision(s) allow the use of instrumentation to treat the diseased tissue. The use of smaller incisions allow for quicker healing with less surrounding tissue damage. In addition, pictures and video of the joint can be collected for the patient to understand their injury better.

For further information, visit the OrthoInfo.org website linked below. 

Many conditions in the shoulder and knee can be addressed via arthroscopy. Arthroscopy can treat disease in the shoulder like rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability, and biceps tendinitis. In the knee, injuries such as ACL tears, meniscus tears, and cartilage defects can all be addressed through minimally invasive incisions.