Arthroscopy (keyhole surgery)

Advantages

The major advantage of an arthroscopy is that it can be done through a day hospitalization. The "quick" procedure is minimally invasive and can already treat many problems. Typically, you have a smooth recovery. In addition to inspecting the joint, minor surgical procedures can be done.

The procedure

Through keyhole surgery, meniscus tears, loose pieces of bone or cartilage, cartilage damage and mucosal inflammation in the joint can be viewed without opening it up completely. Arthroscopy sometimes allows for a better diagnosis and immediate treatment of an abnormality. A thin scope (arthroscope) is inserted through a small incision (± 8 millimeters) at the front of the joint. The arthroscope is plugged to a video camera that is connected to a monitor. A light cable illuminates the inside of the joint. A drain tube and other instruments are inserted through two other incisions.

Recovery

You can usually load the joint again immediately after the keyhole surgery. If here were also some surgical procedures performed, you may need to use crutches or a sling to rest your joint. Depending on the procedure you may get a plaster cast. In some cases, rehabilitation will be required.

During an arthroscopy, different procedures can be performed. The course and recovery can differ from person to person because of this.  

Want to know more about your rehabilitation?

After this surgery, you can attend orthopedic rehabilitation. Learn more about it at the link below.

Orthopaedic rehabilitation