Arthroscopy
Risks
Complications are not common during arthroscopy. Sometimes there is joint stiffness or long-lasting joint pain. Bleeding within the joint can occur, particularly if surgery is done during the procedure.
There is a small chance of infection, formation of a blood clot in the affected limb, or nerve or joint damage. Also, there is a small risk of damage to the structures within the joint.
In rare cases, a serious condition called compartment syndrome can occur if pressure builds within a muscle compartment (most commonly in the front of the calf or forearm). When this occurs, immediate medical treatment is needed to release the pressure.
In very rare cases, death can occur from complications of general anesthesia.
After the test
Contact your doctor immediately if:
- Your pain or swelling (or both) continue or get worse.
- Your incision site bleeds excessively.
- You experience redness, swelling, pain, or a sensation of heat in your calf or arm. These may be signs of a blood clot in a vein, a condition called thrombophlebitis. If you have these symptoms, do not massage the area.
- You develop signs of infection. These signs may include:
- Increased pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around the affected area.
- Red streaks extending from the affected area.
- Drainage of pus from the area.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin.
- Fever or chills with no other known cause.
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| Author: | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH | Last Updated: January 28, 2009 |
| Medical Review: |
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Patrick J. McMahon, MD - Orthopedics Kenneth J. Koval, MD - Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma |
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| Topic Contents | |
| Test Overview | |
| Why It Is Done | |
| How To Prepare | |
| How It Is Done | |
| How It Feels | |
 | Risks |
| Results | |
| What Affects the Test | |
| What To Think About | |
| References | |
| Credits | |