What is Arthroscopy?

Click here to view an animated version of this procedure.

It is used to see, diagnose, and treat problems inside your joint. The procedure is most often performed for the following reasons:

• Diagnose an injury or disease inside a joint
• Remove bone or cartilage
• Repair tendons or ligaments

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have an arthroscopy, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Swelling or bleeding
• Damage to blood vessels, nerves, or other tissue
• The need to have another surgery or more extensive surgery

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Pre-existing heart or lung condition
• Obesity
• Recent or chronic illness
• Diabetes
• Bleeding disorders
• Smoking

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Signs of infection, including fever and chills
• Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or...