An arthroscope is an instrument for looking inside joints. Light is transmitted to the joint via fibre optics in the arthroscope. The part of the arthroscope that enters the knee is about the size of a drinking straw. A small video camera is attached to the end of the arthroscope. The camera is attached to a screen. The arthroscope is inserted into the knee through a small incision (less than 10mm) and the insides of the joint can be seen on the screen. To increase the space inside the knee and make it easier to see and work the knee is distended with fluid throughout the procedure. Through a second incision instruments are introduced to correct any problems that may be found. Theses include small tissue nibblers and motorized shavers.
Arthroscopic Procedures
Arthroscopy allows the surgeon to identify problems and often treat them at the same time. Arthroscopic procedures include:
- Complete evaluation of the joint (diagnostic arthroscopy)
- Assessment of the joint lining (articular cartilage), meniscii (cartilage discs) and cruciate ligaments
- Assessment of the kneecap motion
- Removal of damaged or torn meniscii (partial menisectomy)
- Repair of torn meniscii (meniscus repair)
- Smoothing of damage to the articular cartilage surface in arthritis (chondroplasty)
- Making holes in exposed bone where the articular cartilage surface is absent/damaged (microfracture