An arthroscopy is a surgical procedure performed to observe and therefore make a diagnosis or to treat one of your joints, especially the knee. What you need to know about this operation. 

An arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure, that is, it is performed under video control (arthroscope) with small incisions and specialized instruments. It makes it possible to observe and treat the inside of the joints with little scarring and simpler postoperative procedures. This technique was first developed for the knee and then for the shoulder, ankle and elbow. Athroscopy is a common technique. Most orthopedic procedures are performed arthroscopically. The most commonly performed arthroscopies are those of the knee, shoulder and ankle. 

This intervention can be performed to make a diagnosis when the joint is blocked or painful, for example. A biopsy can be done during an arthroscopy. It can also be done to treat a problem with a joint. 

Preparing for an arthroscopy 

Arthroscopy can be performed under general, regional (epidural, spinal anesthesia) or local anesthesia. The choice of anesthesia depends on the area to be operated on and the nature of the operation.

Arthroscopy in practice 

Two small incisions are made in the area to be explored so that the arthroscope and surgical instruments can penetrate it. The surgeon can then see your joint on screen, make a diagnosis and / or remove the damaged part or repair it. The incisions are sutured. 

Preparing for a knee arthroscopy 

You enter the hospital the very morning of the operation but must be fasting. The knee that is going to be operated on is shaved. 

Most often, locoregional anesthesia is performed. Two incisions of about 1 cm are made on each side of the knee. Then the surgeon introduces the camera (arthroscope) and the surgical instruments there when he needs to intervene. The threads are then sutured and the surgeon gives you a bandage, puts on a splint and a compression stocking (to prevent the risk of phlebitis). This intervention lasts about 30 minutes. You leave the hospital the same evening of the operation (on an outpatient basis) or after one or two days depending on the nature of the operation. 

Prepare for a shoulder arthroscopy

You enter the hospital on the morning of the surgery, on an empty stomach. 

Shoulder arthroscopy is most often performed under general anesthesia accompanied by locoregional anesthesia to reduce pain after surgery. 

This intervention lasts 30 to 90 minutes and is followed by hospitalization of 24/48 hours. 

You can have an arthroscopy to assess a joint injury, complete a diagnosis (osteoarthritis), to take a joint fluid sample or a membrane biopsy, to treat joint pathology (removal of the damaged part of the joint). ” a meniscus or a cartilage, repair of a ligament …)

Knee arthroscopy: in which cases?

Knee arthroscopy is most often done when there is a rupture of the cruciate ligament, following a sports accident, or to treat conditions of the meniscus, related to trauma or aging. Knee arthroscopy may also be done to wash the joints (to remove cartilage particles) if you have osteoarthritis.

Shoulder arthroscopy: when?

Shoulder arthroscopy can be performed in the event of calcifications of the tendons of the shoulder or the scapular joint, lesions of the rotator cuff (groups of 4 tendons), dislocation of the shoulder, etc.

Postoperative after arthroscopy

As arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery, the postoperative follow-up is shorter and simpler than during conventional “open” surgery. Scarring is minimal and painless, and you can get back to your activities quickly.

The hospital is discharged the same evening of the operation or the next day or even two days later. Depending on the area being operated on, a splint, sling or crutches may be needed for a few days. Applying ice to the operated area is recommended for a few days as well as rest. Rehabilitation may be prescribed to promote recovery of mobility and muscle strength.

The results of an arthroscopy 

Arthroscopies done to repair sports injuries usually allow you to continue a sports activity. Arthroscopies performed to relieve symptoms of arthritis have no long-term effect.