Skip to Main Content

Arthroscopic

Call us: (855) 522-6457

Arthroscopy is a type of minimally invasive surgery that evaluates and treats joint problems. At Dignity Health, your joint’s health is the top priority for our board-certified and compassionate surgeons.

During arthroscopic surgery, your surgeon will use a small tool called an arthroscope, with a small camera attached to the end, to get an accurate picture of the inside of your joint.

Am I a Candidate for Arthroscopy?

Your doctor may recommend an arthroscopic procedure if noninvasive treatments have not successfully treated your joint problem. Doctors at Dignity Health use arthroscopy to diagnose and treat the following conditions:

  • inflammation, including rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis, and synovitis
  • infections or septic arthritis in the joint
  • injuries to the joint, including dislocations, fractures, tendon problems, overuse injuries, and torn cartilage
  • joint symptoms that can’t be explained, such as swelling, pain, instability, locking, stiffness, grinding, or catching
  • loose objects, such as bone fragments and pieces of cartilage
  • osteoarthritis, caused by the wear and tear on bones and cartilage

If you or a loved one is experiencing one or more of these symptoms, talk with a doctor at Dignity Health. Our orthopedic experts can perform arthroscopy to diagnose joint problems and treat chronic conditions.

What to Expect with Arthroscopy at Dignity Health

Arthroscopy is performed in a Dignity Health hospital or outpatient surgery center. You most likely will receive anesthesia to prevent pain during the surgery.

For this minimally invasive procedure, your surgeon will make at least two small incisions in your joint. Through these incisions, the surgeon will insert the arthroscope and other instruments needed to diagnose a problem or make repairs. The length of the procedure will depend on what needs done.

Arthroscopy Recovery 

Most people are able to return home several hours after an arthroscopy. You may need a splint, sling, or crutches for a while to stabilize your joint while it heals. Physical therapy will help to strengthen the muscles around your joint and improve your range of motion.

Your healthcare provider will let you know when it is safe to return to normal, daily activities. A full recovery from arthroscopy may take anywhere from several weeks to months, depending on your specific condition.

Learn More

For more information, please view our Minimally Invasive Surgery page, or call us to Find a Doctor.