Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopic surgery is a type of orthopedic surgery that utilizes an instrument called an arthroscope. An arthroscope is a small fiber-optic device that allows the surgeon to view the inside of a joint without a large incision. Most arthroscopic surgery can be performed requiring only three small incisions, each about 0.25 in (6 mm) long. These incisions are called portals. The word arthroscope is from the Greek words meaning "to look at joints." The arthroscope is made up of a lens and a light source, and is connected to a video camera. The surgeon can view the inside of the joint directly through the arthroscope, or an image may be displayed on a video screen. This image gives the surgeon a clear view of the tissue inside the joint. The surgeon can then use other tiny instruments (on the order of only one-eighth of an inch, or 3–4 mm, in diameter) to perform necessary procedures. Arthroscopic surgery can be used as a diagnosis tool, or for corrective procedures ranging from easing the pain of arthritis patients to mending torn ligaments.