What are the risks of arthroscopic surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery is generally considered safe, and serious complications are uncommon. However, it is still an operation and carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, excessive swelling, blood clots, stiffness, continuing pain, and a reaction to anaesthesia. There is also a small risk of damage to nearby nerves, blood vessels, cartilage, or other tissues.

The risks vary according to the joint, the procedure being performed, the length of surgery, and the patient’s overall health. A minor diagnostic arthroscopy does not have exactly the same risk profile as a ligament reconstruction or major tendon repair. Smoking, diabetes, obesity, blood-thinning medicines, previous surgery, and a history of blood clots may also affect risk. Arthroscopy may improve symptoms, but it cannot always reverse advanced arthritis or guarantee that all pain will disappear.

Patients should contact their surgical team if pain or swelling becomes severe or keeps increasing, the wound releases pus or foul-smelling fluid, fever develops, or new numbness or tingling appears. Calf pain, chest pain, or breathing difficulty requires urgent medical attention. Dr. Atul Mishra discusses the expected benefits, alternatives, and individual risks before recommending arthroscopy and provides instructions for wound care, movement, medicines, and rehabilitation.