Arthroscopy

The arthroscopy process depends on which of your joints is involved. Your surgeon will talk you through exactly what to expect.

You may be given a general anaesthetic and put to sleep during the procedure. But it’s also possible to have the procedure under local anaesthetic. Your surgeon and anaesthetist will determine which approach is suitable for you. They’ll take your preference into account along with any existing medical conditions you have.

In general, most arthroscopies follow these steps:

1. You’ll be asked to get into a position that’s comfortable and allows the surgeon access to the affected joint.

2. If it’s a limb joint, your limb may be put into a device to keep it in place.

3. A needle will be inserted into the joint. 

4. A watery solution known as irrigation will be injected. This creates a space for your surgeon to work in.

5. A small cut will be made in your skin and underlying soft tissue. This is so your surgeon can insert the arthroscope.

6. Your surgeon will use the arthroscope to get a clearer picture of the affected joint.

7. If your surgeon is also repairing the joint, they’ll make more small cuts to insert surgical tools to do the repairs. This may involve trimming and/or removing material from the joint. 

8. The cuts will be closed with sterile adhesive tape or a few stitches. 

The procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on which type you’re having. You’ll be able to return home after a few hours of monitoring in our outpatient clinic.

Arthroscopy is considered very safe. Complications are uncommon but can occur with any surgical procedure. They can include:

• stiffness or swelling around the joint

• infection

• blood clots

• tissue damage

• nerve damage

Your surgeon will give you personalised preparation instructions, and you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions. 

In general, you can expect to be asked to:

• avoid eating or drinking for some time before the procedures 

• stop smoking if you smoke, as it increases the risk of getting an infection

• stop taking certain medications in the run-up to your procedure

You won’t be able to drive yourself home on the day (or for the next 1 to 4 weeks), so it’s best to arrange for someone to collect you. Your next recovery steps will depend on the type of procedure you had and which joint was involved. Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions on what to do in the weeks and months following your surgery.

Expect mild discomfort as you recover. You may be able to take over-the-counter or prescription painkillers to help manage any pain. Your surgeon will talk you through your tailored medication plan.

Rest will be a fundamental part of your recovery process. You won’t be able to move the affected joint for a while. You may be given a sling, splint, or crutches for your comfort and to help you protect your joint. You’ll also need to avoid strenuous exercise for some time after the procedure.

Most arthroscopies require you to undergo physiotherapy as you recover. It usually involves doing exercises that strengthen your muscles surrounding the joint and boost its range of motion.

Please contact our Orthopaedic centre for pricing information.

At Welbeck, our orthopaedic surgeons are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book an arthroscopy, you must be referred by either your GP or an orthopaedic surgeon following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this treatment.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.