How long does arthroscopic surgery take?

The duration of arthroscopic surgery depends on the joint involved and what the surgeon needs to do. A simple diagnostic or minor treatment procedure may take around 30 to 60 minutes. More extensive work, such as meniscus repair, ligament reconstruction, rotator cuff repair, or treatment of several problems during the same operation, can take longer. Some arthroscopic procedures may last two hours or more.

The time spent in the hospital is longer than the operation itself. Before surgery, the team prepares the patient and gives the planned anaesthesia. After surgery, the patient is monitored in a recovery area until the effects of anaesthesia reduce and it is safe to go home. Many arthroscopies are performed as day-care procedures, although an overnight stay may occasionally be recommended depending on the operation, anaesthesia, or the patient’s health.

Surgical time should be treated as an estimate rather than a fixed promise. The surgeon may identify additional damage after viewing the joint directly, and treating it safely can increase the duration. Dr. Atul Mishra explains the expected time after reviewing the joint, imaging, planned repair, and overall health. The priority is accurate treatment and patient safety, not completing the procedure quickly.