Arthroscopy — often called keyhole surgery — is a procedure apt for diagnosing and treating joint problems. The surgeon inserts a narrow tube through a small keyhole incision, connected to a fiber-optic video camera. The instrument's small lens and lighting system give a clear view inside the joint.
02What it treats
Arthroscopy is performed on the knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, wrist and elbow — to diagnose and treat:
Torn meniscus — the cartilage cushion of the knee
Damaged or worn joint cartilage
Torn or unstable ligaments
Inflamed joint linings
Loose fragments of bone or cartilage within the joint
Scarring and stiffness inside the joint
03Common indications by joint
Some of the most common reasons arthroscopy is recommended:
Knee — meniscus tears, cartilage damage and ligament (ACL) injuries
Shoulder — rotator cuff tears, labral tears and impingement
Ankle — cartilage injuries, impingement and loose bodies
04After the surgery
Your doctor or therapist will guide recovery with a simple protocol:
05Recovery protocol
Medication — to heal quickly and relieve pain.
Protection — temporary slings or crutches keep the operated joint still.
Exercise — simple prescribed movements strengthen muscles for a quick recovery.
RICE — rest, ice, compression and elevation to relieve the joint and reduce swelling.
06Frequently asked questions
Arthroscopy is performed on the knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, wrist and elbow. Through a small keyhole incision, a fibre-optic camera lets the surgeon diagnose and treat problems inside the joint with minimal disruption to surrounding tissue.
Yes. Arthroscopy is commonly used to repair or trim a torn meniscus, treat damaged cartilage, address torn ligaments, remove loose fragments and clear inflamed joint lining — restoring smooth, pain-free movement.
Recovery is generally faster than open surgery. Your doctor or therapist will guide a simple protocol — medication for comfort, temporary protection of the joint, prescribed strengthening exercises, and RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) to reduce swelling.
Plan this visit
Plan your arthroscopy discussion
Keyhole surgery suits specific problems — the visit confirms fit.
Which joint is troubling you?
Arthroscopy works across joints.
Ask the surgeon
Questions about arthroscopy?
Costs, recovery time, whether surgery is even needed in your case — send your question and get a call back within one working day.