Arthroscopy

From greek.doctor
  • Small tube with a light and camera is pushed into the joint through a hole
    • A cannula is pushed through a second hole to provide irrigation fluid
    • A third hole is opened for entry of tools, like forceps, shavers, scalpel, etc.
  • Was developed to diagnose intraarticular knee injuries without opening the joint
  • Was originally used for diagnostic purposes – nowadays not used for diagnosis
    • We use MRI instead
  • Widely used today for minimally therapeutic purposes
    • Gives more rapid recovery than open joint surgery
  • Indications
    • Meniscotomy
    • ACL reconstruction
    • Foreign body removal
    • Repair of rotator cuff tear
  • Can be used for all joints which are not very small
    • Mostly used for knee and shoulder