Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique used for the accurate diagnosis and immediate treatment of various joint conditions, particularly in the shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle. This modern procedure allows the surgeon to view the inside of the joint through tiny incisions and accurately detect and treat damage without the need for hospitalization.
In the past, open surgery was the only treatment option, often resulting in significant trauma to the joint, extended hospital stays, immobilization, and pain lasting for weeks. Today, arthroscopy offers a solution to all of the above.
Common Symptoms
Η μη καλή λειτουργία της άρθρωσης μπορεί να οφείλεται σε τραυματικά ή παθολογικά αίτια. Συχνότερα συμπτώματα ειναι ο πόνος, η δυσκαμψία, το οίδημα-πρήξιμο και η αστάθεια.Όταν η συντηρητική θεραπεία δεν επαρκεί, τότε συνίσταται η αρθροσκόπηση.
When Arthroscopy Is Indicated
Arthroscopy is commonly used to treat:
- Meniscus tears (knee)
- Cruciate ligament injuries (knee)
- Cartilage damage in various joints
- Rotator cuff tears (shoulder)
- Labral tears and ligament injuries (shoulder)
- Dislocations and chronic shoulder instability
- Calcific tendonitis (shoulder)
- Inflammatory joint diseases
- Early-stage arthritis
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Selected fractures
Arthroscopy Procedure
The orthopedic surgeon inserts a tiny camera called an arthroscope (about 3–5 mm in diameter) into the joint through a small incision. The camera projects a high-definition, magnified image of the inside of the joint onto a monitor.
This allows the surgeon to:
- Carefully examine the joint and accurately detect even the smallest injuries, even in hard-to-reach areas
- Repair intra-articular and periarticular lesions using specially designed fine instruments and biocompatible materials such as sutures and anchors
The small incisions minimize muscle and tissue trauma, leading to fewer complications and reduced post-operative pain. The small marks fade over time.
In certain cases, biological therapies (e.g., Stem Cells, Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation, Platelet-Rich Plasma – PRP) may be combined with arthroscopy to enhance healing.
Most arthroscopies last about one hour and are performed under regional and light general anesthesia. The patient usually returns home the same day.
Advantages of Arthroscopy
- Minimally invasive and low-trauma method
- High diagnostic accuracy
- Faster and more effective recovery
- Lower complication risk
- Minimal post-operative pain
- Excellent cosmetic result (no visible scars)
- No hospitalization required
Modern Arthroscopic Techniques
Arthroscopic surgery has made remarkable advancements in recent years, developing new techniques and tools that make the procedure even less invasive. Depending on the type and severity of the injury, different approaches are used—from simple procedures like meniscus repair or adhesion release to more complex interventions involving autografts or tendon transfers.
Post-Operative Recovery
Pain is usually minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon are necessary to monitor wound healing and to provide rehabilitation guidance. Stitches are typically removed within 8–10 days.
A personalized rehabilitation program including physiotherapy, mobility training, strengthening, and proprioception exercises is essential for successful recovery. The program is tailored to the type and extent of the injury repaired.
Orthopedic Surgeon – Sports Medicine Specialist Dr. Anastasios Deligeorgis is highly specialized in advanced arthroscopic techniques and has worked as a clinical instructor in leading hospitals abroad. He currently serves as Deputy Director of the 3rd Orthopedic Clinic at Hygeia Hospital, one of the few internationally certified arthroscopy training centers in Greece.