What Is Arthroscopy? How It Differs from Open Surgery

A Modern Approach in Joint Diagnosis and Treatment

Arthroscopy is one of the most frequently used techniques in orthopedic and sports surgery today. It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used for both diagnosing and treating joint problems. By inserting a small camera (arthroscope) through tiny incisions, surgeons can visualize the interior of the joint and perform necessary treatments simultaneously.

Arthroscopy is commonly used for large joints such as the knee, hip, shoulder, and ankle, offering significant advantages over traditional open surgery. In this article, we explore what arthroscopy is, when it is used, and how it compares to open surgery.

What Is Arthroscopy?

The word “arthroscopy” means “to look inside the joint.” It involves using a thin camera and specialized instruments inserted through incisions typically 0.5–1 cm in size.

With arthroscopy, surgeons can:

• Directly examine intra-articular structures (cartilage, meniscus, ligaments, labrum)
• Perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in the same session
• Minimize surgical trauma and support faster recovery

Which Joints Can Be Treated with Arthroscopy?

• Knee: Meniscal tears, ACL/PCL repair, cartilage lesions
• Hip: Labral tears, femoroacetabular impingement, early-stage arthritis
• Shoulder: Rotator cuff tears, recurrent dislocations, SLAP lesions
• Ankle: Synovitis, impingement, removal of loose bodies
• Elbow and Wrist: Limited use for diagnosis and specific conditions

Advantages of Arthroscopy

• Small incisions: Minimal damage to skin and soft tissues
• Less pain: Compared to open surgery, postoperative discomfort is reduced
• Faster recovery: Return to daily activities is quicker
• Lower infection risk: Closed system reduces exposure
• Cosmetic benefit: Minimal scarring
• Diagnostic & therapeutic in one: Both inspection and repair can be performed simultaneously

Arthroscopy vs. Open Surgery

When Is Arthroscopy Preferred?

• Meniscal tears
• ACL/PCL reconstruction
• Labral repair (hip or shoulder)
• Cartilage lesion assessment and treatment
• Removal of loose bodies in the joint
• Impingement syndromes limiting joint motion
• Diagnostic purposes in unexplained joint pain or swelling

Recovery After Arthroscopy

Although healing varies by joint and procedure, most patients can expect:

• Same-day discharge
• Return to light activities within 3–5 days
• Physical therapy typically starts within the first week
• Full return to daily activities within 4–6 weeks (varies)
• Athletes may return to sport in 3–6 months depending on the injury