ARTHROSCOPY

Until the development of the arthroscope in 1972, injuries of the knee and other joints often required major surgery. Although some injuries still require large incisions to open the knee or shoulder for reconstructive surgery, many less serious injuries can now be corrected using the arthroscope in a procedure called arthroscopy. The arthroscope is made up of a tube, an optical system of magnifying lenses, and a fiber optic light source. After either a general or a local anesthetic is administered to the patient, a small incision is made. The incision is often so small that it does not require stitches to close after the procedure is complete. The fiber optic light source and tube of the arthroscope are then inserted into the incision. Through the eyepiece or on a screen, the physician can look at the inside of the joint. A sterile fluid may be injected into the joint space to enlarge it and improve visibility. Once inside the joint, the physician can not only view it through the arthroscope, but may take a biopsy specimen or perform minor surgery. Floating bits of cartilage may be removed, and minor tears and other problems may be treated the same way. The arthroscope is also helpful in diagnosing various joint disorders. Unlike traditional surgical procedures where the joint is opened, little time is needed for the joint to heal after arthroscopy. The procedure rarely takes more than an hour, and the patient can usually return home shortly after the procedure is performed. Routine activities can usually be resumed immediately, although the joint should not be subjected to rigorous physical activity for several days.

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