Overview
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat joint problems. Using a small camera called an arthroscope, surgeons can view the inside of a joint and perform repairs without making large incisions. This technique is commonly used for knee, shoulder, ankle, elbow, wrist, and hip joints.
In Korea, arthroscopy is performed in advanced orthopedic centers by experienced arthroscopic surgeons. Hospitals utilize state-of-the-art imaging equipment, precision instruments, and minimally invasive surgical techniques, ensuring reduced pain, faster recovery, and minimal scarring. Comprehensive rehabilitation programs help patients regain joint function and strength efficiently.
What is Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera (arthroscope) into a joint through a small incision. The camera projects images onto a screen, allowing the surgeon to:
- Diagnose joint injuries or conditions
- Remove or repair damaged cartilage, ligaments, or tissue
- Perform procedures such as meniscus repair, ligament reconstruction, or synovial biopsy
Key points:
- Minimally invasive alternative to traditional open surgery
- Can be used for diagnosis, treatment, or both
- Commonly performed on knee, shoulder, hip, wrist, ankle, or elbow joints
- Enables faster recovery, less post-operative pain, and shorter hospital stays
What are the benefits?
- Minimally invasive: Smaller incisions reduce infection risk and scarring
- Faster recovery compared to open surgery
- Accurate diagnosis of joint conditions
- Pain relief and improved mobility
- ✅ Allows simultaneous treatment and repair during the procedure
- ✅ Reduces hospital stay, often allowing same-day discharge
- ✅ In Korea, high-precision arthroscopy ensures optimal joint restoration and rehabilitation
Procedure Details
1) How should I prepare for Arthroscopy?
- ➤ Preoperative evaluation: Blood tests, imaging (X-ray, MRI), and medical assessment
- ➤ Discuss current medications, especially blood thinners
- ➤ Fasting instructions may be required for general anesthesia
- ➤ Preoperative counseling about procedure, risks, post-op care, and physical therapy
- ➤ Arrange for transportation, as patients may have limited mobility post-procedure
2) What happens during the procedure Arthroscopy?
- ✅ Performed under general or regional anesthesia
- ✅ Small incisions are made near the joint
- ✅ The arthroscope is inserted, providing real-time images on a monitor
- ✅ Surgical instruments are inserted through additional small incisions to:
- Remove or repair torn cartilage or ligaments
- Smooth rough surfaces
- Remove loose fragments or inflamed tissue
- ✅ Procedure duration typically 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on joint and complexity
3) What happens after an Arthroscopy?
- ➤ Patients are monitored in recovery for a few hours if outpatient
- ➤ Pain management with medications as needed
- ➤ Ice, elevation, and rest help reduce swelling
- ➤ Physical therapy begins soon after to restore mobility, strength, and function
- ➤ Most patients resume normal activities within weeks, depending on the joint and procedure complexity
Risks / Benefits
Potential Risks:
- ➤ Infection at the incision site
- ➤ Blood clots (rare)
- ➤ Joint stiffness or swelling
- ➤ Nerve or blood vessel injury (rare)
- ➤ Persistent pain or limited improvement
Benefits:
- ✅ Minimally invasive with smaller scars and quicker recovery
- ✅ Accurate diagnosis and treatment of joint issues
- ✅ Reduces pain and improves joint function
- ✅ Allows early return to daily activities or sports
- ✅ In Korea, advanced arthroscopy minimizes complications and ensures optimal rehabilitation
Recovery and Outlook
- Hospital stay: Often outpatient, sometimes overnight for complex cases
- Activity: Gradual resumption of daily activities as advised
- Physical therapy: Key to restoring joint strength, flexibility, and function
- Full recovery: Usually 4–6 weeks for minor repairs, up to 3–6 months for complex reconstructions
- Lifestyle: Follow rehabilitation instructions, avoid high-impact activity initially, and maintain a healthy weight for joint longevity
When To Call the Doctor
- ➤ Severe pain not relieved by medication
- ➤ Redness, swelling, or discharge from incision site
- ➤ Fever or signs of infection
- ➤ Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected limb
- ➤ Difficulty moving the joint despite rehabilitation
Best Korea Option / Process
- ✅ Korea provides state-of-the-art orthopedic and sports medicine centers
- ✅ Hospitals offer minimally invasive arthroscopy for various joints with expert post-op care
- ✅ Advanced equipment ensures high precision, reduced complications, and optimal outcomes
- ✅ Post-operative care includes physical therapy, pain management, and monitoring for complications
- ✅ International patients benefit from VIP services, English-speaking staff, and coordinated care
- ✅ High success rates and short recovery times make Korea a preferred destination for arthroscopy