Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery (arthroscopy) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat joint problems. A small camera (arthroscope) is inserted through a tiny incision, projecting images onto a screen that guides the surgeon. It is most commonly performed on the knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, elbow, and wrist. Arthroscopy results in less pain, less scarring, and faster recovery than traditional open surgery.
Find a SurgeonWho Needs Arthroscopic Surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery is used to treat torn cartilage (meniscus), damaged ligaments, loose bone or cartilage fragments, inflamed joint lining, joint infection, and damaged joint surfaces. It is both diagnostic (identifying problems) and therapeutic (fixing them).
What to Expect
Recovery Timeline
Rest, ice, elevation. Mild pain managed with over-the-counter medications. Bandage changes.
Gradual increase in activity. Physical therapy may begin. Most patients walk normally.
Progressive rehabilitation. Return to desk work within 1-2 weeks for most procedures.
Return to full activity for simple procedures (meniscectomy, loose body removal).
Full recovery for complex repairs (meniscus repair, labral repair).
Risks & Complications
- Infection (less than 0.5%)
- Blood clots (rare)
- Swelling and stiffness
- Nerve or blood vessel damage (rare)
- Cartilage damage from instruments
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does arthroscopic surgery take?
Most arthroscopic procedures take 30 minutes to 2 hours. Simple diagnostic arthroscopy or loose body removal may take 30-45 minutes. Complex repairs (ACL reconstruction, labral repair) take 1-2 hours.
Is arthroscopic surgery painful?
Arthroscopic surgery causes significantly less pain than traditional open surgery. Most patients manage post-operative pain with ice and over-the-counter medications. Prescription pain medication may be needed for the first few days after complex repairs.
How soon can I walk after arthroscopic knee surgery?
After simple knee arthroscopy (meniscectomy, loose body removal), most patients walk the same day with minimal limping within a week. After meniscus repair, crutches may be needed for 2-6 weeks.
Find a surgeon for Arthroscopic Surgery
Compare orthopaedic surgeons who perform this procedure.
Search surgeonsEstimated Cost
$5,000 - $20,000 (before insurance) depending on joint and procedure complexity. Widely covered by insurance.
Full cost breakdownRelated Specialty
Sports Med Specialists →Other Procedures
This information is for educational purposes only. Costs are estimates and vary by location, surgeon, and insurance. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.