Arthroscopy
Keyhole surgery that lets the surgeon see inside a joint and repair damage through small incisions.
Stay
Day care in many cases
Duration
About 30-90 minutes
Anaesthesia
Spinal or general
About Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy uses a small camera inserted through a tiny incision to examine the inside of a joint, most often the knee or shoulder. Many problems found can be treated during the same procedure using fine instruments, without opening the joint.
Before you read on
Everything here is general information about arthroscopy. Whether it suits you, and how it would be done in your case, is a decision for your doctor after examining you.
Your consultant's instructions always take precedence over anything written on this page.
When is it recommended?
Situations in which a doctor may suggest arthroscopy.
- Suspected meniscus or cartilage tears
- Ligament injuries, including sports injuries
- Persistent joint pain, locking or swelling without a clear cause
- Shoulder problems such as rotator cuff injury
Procedure details
The usual sequence, from first consultation through to follow-up.
Imaging and assessment
An MRI or X-ray helps confirm the problem and plan what is likely to be done.
Procedure
A camera and instruments are passed through small incisions to inspect and treat the joint.
Same-day recovery
Many patients go home the same day once the anaesthetic has worn off and pain is controlled.
Physiotherapy
A rehabilitation programme restores movement and strength, with timelines set by your surgeon.
How to prepare
What to sort out before you come in.
- Imaging and a pre-anaesthetic review beforehand
- Fasting from the time your team specifies
- Wear loose clothing that fits over a dressing
- Arrange someone to drive you home
Recovery
What to expect afterwards, and roughly when.
- Usually a day-case procedure - home the same day
- Keep the joint elevated and iced for the first 48 hours
- Physiotherapy starts early and is central to a good result
- Return to sport is staged, guided by your surgeon
Why choose Humayun?
What you can expect from us, whichever department you come in through.
Experienced specialists
Consultants who perform these procedures routinely, not occasionally.
Everything on one campus
Theatres, critical care, diagnostics and pharmacy in the same building, so care is not split across sites.
Safety you can check
Infection control, consent and clinical protocols audited against national accreditation standards.
In-house diagnostics
Laboratory and imaging on site, so results reach your doctor the same day rather than after a referral.
Clear about cost
You are told what a treatment involves and what it is likely to cost before you consent to it.
Support around the clock
A 24×7 emergency department and critical care units, whatever time you need us.
Your Health Matters
Take the next step towards better healthcare.
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