Is arthroscopy a major surgery?

Arthroscopy is generally considered a minimally invasive or keyhole surgical procedure, rather than conventional open surgery. Small incisions are used to introduce a camera and specialised instruments into the joint.

Because the joint does not usually need to be opened through a large incision, recovery can be easier than after many open procedures.

Potential advantages include

• Smaller incisions
• Less soft-tissue disruption
• Reduced scarring
• Less post-operative pain in many cases
• Shorter hospital stay
• Earlier mobilisation
• Faster return to routine activities for some procedures

ASIC Clinic currently describes most arthroscopic procedures as day-care procedures, although the actual duration of hospital stay depends on the operation and the patient.

Does minimally invasive mean minor?

Not necessarily.

The size of the incision does not determine how important the surgery is. An arthroscopic ACL reconstruction or rotator cuff repair can involve significant internal repair and require several months of rehabilitation.

Recovery depends on:

• The joint involved
• What was repaired
• Extent of the injury
• Patient age
• Muscle strength
• Physiotherapy
• Activity or sports goals

Dr. Atul Mishra decides whether arthroscopy is appropriate after evaluating the injury, examination findings, and imaging rather than recommending the procedure simply because it is minimally invasive.