Arthroscopy is a common surgical procedure in which a joint
(arthro-) is viewed (-scopy) using a small camera. Arthroscopy
gives doctors a clear view of the inside of the knee. This helps
them diagnose and treat knee problems. Technical advances have
led to high definition monitors and high resolution cameras.
These and other improvements have made arthroscopy a very
effective tool for treating knee problems. According to the
American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, more than 4
million knee arthroscopies are performed worldwide each year.
Arthroscopy is done through small incisions. During the
procedure, your orthopaedic surgeon inserts the arthroscope (a
small camera instrument about the size of a pencil) into your
knee joint. The arthroscope sends the image to a television
monitor. On the monitor, your surgeon can see the structures of
the knee in great detail. Your surgeon can use arthroscopy to
feel, repair or remove damaged tissue. To do this, small
surgical instruments are inserted through othe