Arthroscopy

Why It Is Done

Arthroscopy is used to:

• Evaluate and diagnose a joint problem when a physical exam and other diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, blood tests, computed tomography (CT) scans, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are not conclusive.
• Perform surgery to repair a joint problem.

Examples of when arthroscopy is used to perform surgery:

• Bone tissue can be shaved to remove calcium deposits or bone spurs.
• Soft tissues (such as ligaments, tendons, or cartilage) can be repaired or trimmed.
• Ligaments can be cut, repaired, or reconstructed.
• Cutting or releasing a tight ligament may allow increased range of motion for a stiff joint.
• A sample of joint tissue or joint fluid (synovial fluid) may be collected for laboratory analysis (biopsy).
• Scar tissue or an area of joint lining (synovium) that is inflamed can be removed.

Some joint problems may sometimes be repaired using a combination of arthroscopy and open surgery.

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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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