QUESTION: I thought the pain in my joint came from strain, or perhaps an early case of arthritis.
However my doctor now suggests that an special examination be performed.
I guess he may be on to something, but I need to know more.
What do doctors perform "arthroscopy" for?
ANSWER: Arthroscopy is short for arthroscopic intra-articular examination and treatment, that is, the use of a device that may enter into a joint and examine and treat it.
A surgeon will make a very small cut on, say, the knee, and use the thin, tubelike arthroscope to examine its interior.
A similar device can be inserted through another incision to provide light, and knee surgery can be performed leaving two or so scars less than an inch long. Arthroscopy allows for very rapid recovery and lessened discomfort as compared to other joint surgery. Arthroscopic techniques are now widely used to examine and treat the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and ankle, and they are being experimented with for other joints.
In diagnosis, arthroscopy can be used to determine the causes of swelling, instability or locking of the knee, and therapy can be determined based on the findings.
In surgery, arthroscopy can be used to remove loose or damaged cartilage and tendons, or to remove some joint fluid.
It is not possible for me to speculate on the reasons your physician has for requesting this special examination, and so, now that you understand a bit about the procedure, it is time you posed your questions to him so that you may receive the information you need to make an informed decision about your care.
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician.
Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.
