Arthroscopy: Why It Is Done
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Why It Is Done
Arthroscopy is used to:
- Evaluate and diagnose a joint problem when a physical examination and other diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, blood tests, computed tomography (CT) scans, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are not conclusive.
- Perform surgery to repair a joint problem.
When arthroscopy is used to perform surgery:
- Bone tissue can be shaved to remove calcium deposits or bone spurs.
- Soft tissues (such as ligaments, tendons, or cartilage) can be repaired or trimmed.
- Ligaments can be cut, repaired, or reconstructed.
- Cutting or releasing a tight ligament may allow increased range of motion for a stiff joint.
- A sample of joint tissue or joint fluid (synovial fluid) may be collected for laboratory analysis (biopsy).
- Scar tissue or an area of joint lining (synovium) that is inflamed can be removed.
Some joint problems may sometimes be repaired using a combination of arthroscopy and open surgery.
| Last updated: | January 29, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS |
| Reviewed By: | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, David Pichora, MD, FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgery |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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