Arthroscopic Surgery in Delhi, India

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat joint problems. A small camera, called an arthroscope, is inserted through tiny incisions to provide a clear view inside the joint. Specialised surgical instruments are then used to repair damaged tissues, such as torn ligaments or cartilage. This technique is commonly performed on the knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, elbow, and wrist. Compared to open surgery, arthroscopic procedures involve smaller incisions, reduced pain, and a quicker recovery, allowing patients to return to normal activities sooner.

Arthroscopic surgery is performed on various joints to diagnose and treat a range of conditions. This minimally invasive approach allows for precise treatment with smaller incisions and quicker recovery. The most common types include:

Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is commonly used to diagnose and treat injuries affecting the knee joint. It is performed to repair meniscus tears, reconstruct ligaments such as the ACL or PCL, remove loose cartilage fragments, and treat inflammation caused by arthritis or synovitis. This procedure can also help with kneecap issues and cartilage restoration.

Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy is used to treat rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, labral tears, and recurrent dislocations. It helps stabilise the shoulder, repair damaged tissues, and relieve pain caused by inflammation. The procedure is also beneficial for frozen shoulders, allowing improved movement and flexibility.

Hip Arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is performed for conditions such as labral tears, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), hip instability, and cartilage damage. It helps reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and delay the progression of arthritis by addressing structural problems in the hip joint.

Ankle Arthroscopy

Ankle arthroscopy is used to diagnose and treat ligament injuries, cartilage defects, bone spurs, and chronic ankle instability. It is often performed to remove scar tissue or loose bone fragments that may be causing pain and swelling. This procedure is beneficial for athletes and individuals with recurring ankle problems.

Elbow Arthroscopy

Elbow arthroscopy is commonly used for conditions such as tennis elbow, elbow arthritis, loose bone fragments, and joint stiffness. It helps remove inflamed tissue, repair damaged tendons, and restore flexibility in the elbow joint. This procedure is often recommended for patients experiencing persistent pain and limited movement.

Wrist Arthroscopy

Wrist arthroscopy is performed to diagnose and treat ligament injuries, wrist fractures, ganglion cysts, and chronic wrist pain. It allows surgeons to assess joint damage, remove loose cartilage, and repair soft tissues with minimal disruption. This procedure is particularly useful for individuals with wrist pain that does not improve with conservative treatments.

Each type of arthroscopic surgery is tailored to the specific needs of the joint, providing a less invasive approach to managing joint pain, improving mobility, and restoring function.

Arthroscopic surgery is advised when joint problems cause persistent pain, stiffness, swelling, or limited movement that do not improve with non-surgical treatments such as medication, physiotherapy, or lifestyle modifications. It is commonly recommended for the following conditions:

Ligament Injuries

Torn or stretched ligaments can cause joint instability and pain, making movement difficult. Arthroscopic surgery is often performed for ligament reconstruction, such as an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tear in the knee. Shoulder ligament injuries, including rotator cuff tears and labral tears, may also require arthroscopic repair to restore strength and stability.

Cartilage Damage

Cartilage acts as a cushion between bones in a joint, allowing smooth movement. Injuries or wear and tear can cause cartilage damage, leading to pain and reduced flexibility. Arthroscopy is used to remove damaged cartilage, stimulate new cartilage growth, or perform cartilage transplantation to preserve joint function. Meniscus tears in the knee and labral tears in the hip are common conditions that benefit from arthroscopic treatment.

Joint Inflammation and Synovitis

Chronic inflammation within a joint, known as synovitis, can result in swelling, pain, and restricted movement. Arthroscopic surgery is used to remove inflamed tissue in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or synovial chondromatosis, helping to relieve symptoms and improve mobility.

Loose Bone or Cartilage Fragments

Fragments of bone or cartilage can break off within a joint due to injury or degenerative conditions, causing pain, swelling, and a locking sensation. Arthroscopy allows for the removal of these loose bodies, reducing discomfort and restoring smooth joint movement. This is commonly performed for conditions affecting the knee, elbow, and ankle.

Recurrent Joint Dislocations

Joints such as the shoulder and kneecap may become unstable due to repeated dislocations. Arthroscopic procedures can tighten or repair the damaged ligaments and structures that hold the joint in place, reducing the risk of further dislocations and improving stability.

Chronic Joint Pain and Stiffness

When joint pain, stiffness, or restricted movement persist despite conservative treatments, arthroscopy can help identify and address the underlying problem. It is often used to assess joint damage, remove scar tissue, and perform corrective procedures to improve function.

Before recommending arthroscopic surgery, a specialist evaluates the severity of the condition, overall joint health, and treatment history to determine if surgery is the most suitable option. The goal is to relieve pain, restore movement, and prevent further joint deterioration.

Proper preparation before arthroscopic surgery helps ensure a smooth procedure and recovery. The steps involved include medical evaluation, pre-operative instructions, and necessary lifestyle adjustments.

Medical Evaluation and Tests

A specialist assesses the joint condition through physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Blood tests and other pre-surgical evaluations may be required to check overall health and rule out any risks. Patients with underlying conditions such as diabetes or heart disease may need additional medical clearance.

Pre-Operative Instructions

• Medication adjustments – Certain medications, including blood thinners and anti-inflammatory drugs, may need to be paused or adjusted before surgery. The specialist provides specific guidance based on individual health conditions.
• Fasting requirements – Eating or drinking is usually restricted for a few hours before the procedure, especially if general anaesthesia is used. The hospital provides clear instructions regarding fasting.
• Clothing and personal care – Comfortable clothing is recommended on the day of surgery. Patients may be advised to avoid applying lotions, creams, or shaving the surgical area to reduce the risk of infection.

Following these preparations helps ensure the procedure goes smoothly and recovery is as comfortable as possible.

The procedure typically follows these steps:

Anaesthesia Administration

The type of anaesthesia used depends on the joint being treated and the patient’s overall health. Options include:

• Local anaesthesia – Numbs only the affected joint while the patient remains awake.
• Regional anaesthesia – Blocks sensation in a larger area, such as an entire limb, with the patient awake or sedated.
• General anaesthesia – Induces unconsciousness, ensuring the patient feels no pain during the procedure.

The specialist determines the most suitable anaesthesia based on individual cases and the complexity of the surgery.

Incision and Arthroscopy Insertion

Small incisions, typically 2 to 3 millimetres in size, are made near the joint. A thin, flexible instrument called an arthroscope is inserted through one of the incisions. The arthroscope contains a high-resolution camera that transmits real-time images to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to examine the joint structure in detail.

Joint Inspection and Surgical Repair

Once the joint is visualised, additional small instruments are inserted through separate incisions to perform necessary repairs. Depending on the condition being treated, the following procedures may be performed:

• Ligament reconstruction – Repairing or reconstructing torn ligaments, such as the ACL in the knee.
• Cartilage restoration – Removing damaged cartilage or stimulating new cartilage growth.
• Bone and tissue removal – Extracting loose bone fragments, inflamed tissue, or bone spurs that may be causing pain.
• Joint stabilisation – Repairing torn labrum or tendons in joints such as the shoulder or hip to prevent dislocation.

Closure and Dressing

After completing the procedure, the instruments are removed, and the incisions are closed with stitches or adhesive strips. A sterile bandage is applied to protect the area. In some cases, a splint or brace may be used to support the joint during initial recovery.

Duration and Monitoring

The procedure typically lasts between 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the complexity of the condition being treated. After surgery, the patient is moved to a recovery area, where vital signs are monitored before discharge. Most arthroscopic surgeries are performed as day procedures, allowing patients to return home the same day with post-operative care instructions.

Recovery after arthroscopic surgery varies depending on the joint treated and the type of procedure performed. 

Immediate Post-Surgery Care

• After the procedure, the patient is monitored in a recovery area until the effects of anaesthesia wear off.
• Pain, swelling, and stiffness around the joint are common and managed with prescribed pain relievers and cold compresses.
• In most cases, patients can return home the same day, but someone should be available to assist with transportation.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

• Rest and Activity Restrictions – Movement may be limited initially, depending on the joint treated. Crutches, a brace, or a sling may be recommended for support.
• Physiotherapy – A rehabilitation plan is often advised to restore mobility, strengthen the joint, and prevent stiffness. Physiotherapy may begin within a few days or weeks, depending on the procedure.
• Wound Care – The surgical dressings should be kept clean and dry. Stitches or adhesive strips are usually removed within 1 to 2 weeks.

Returning to Daily Activities

• Light activities can usually be resumed within a few days, but strenuous movements should be avoided until cleared by the specialist.
• Office-based work may be resumed in a week, while physically demanding jobs may require a longer recovery period.
• Full recovery can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the type of surgery and the joint involved.

Follow-Up Appointments

Regular follow-up visits help monitor healing and ensure the joint is recovering properly. The specialist assesses progress and adjusts the recovery plan as needed.

Arthroscopic surgery provides several advantages over traditional open surgery. The minimally invasive approach allows for effective diagnosis and treatment of joint conditions with faster recovery and fewer complications.

Smaller Incisions and Less Tissue Damage

The procedure is performed through small incisions, which reduces trauma to the surrounding muscles and soft tissues. This minimises scarring and promotes faster healing compared to open surgery.

Reduced Pain and Swelling

Less disruption to the joint structures results in lower post-operative pain and inflammation. Cold compresses and prescribed medications help manage any discomfort during recovery.

Faster Recovery and Shorter Hospital Stay

Most arthroscopic procedures are performed as day surgeries, allowing patients to return home on the same day. Recovery is generally quicker, and light activities can often be resumed within a few days.

Lower Risk of Infection and Complications

The small incision size lowers the chances of infection and excessive bleeding. The risk of complications such as blood clots or delayed wound healing is also reduced compared to open surgery.

Improved Joint Function and Mobility

By addressing joint issues such as ligament tears, cartilage damage, or inflammation, arthroscopy helps restore movement and flexibility. Physiotherapy after surgery further supports long-term joint strength and function.

Arthroscopic surgery is generally considered safe, but like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. Complications are uncommon, but it is important to be aware of potential concerns during recovery.

• Infection – Though rare, infections can develop at the incision site or inside the joint. Signs include redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the wound.
• Blood Clots – Limited mobility after surgery can increase the risk of blood clot formation, particularly in the legs. Symptoms such as swelling, pain, or warmth in the leg should be reported immediately.
• Joint Stiffness and Swelling – Temporary stiffness and swelling are common but usually resolve with physiotherapy. In some cases, these symptoms may persist longer than expected.
• Nerve or Blood Vessel Damage – There is a small risk of nerve or blood vessel injury due to surgical instruments inside the joint, which may cause numbness, tingling, or weakness.
• Persistent Pain or Limited Improvement – Some individuals may continue to experience discomfort or restricted movement after surgery, depending on the severity of the joint condition.

Most risks can be managed with proper post-surgical care, physiotherapy, and regular follow-ups.

How soon can I walk after the surgery?

Most patients can start walking with assistance on the same day or within 24 hours of surgery, depending on the joint treated and the extent of the procedure. Weight-bearing may be restricted initially, and gradual movement is encouraged to aid recovery.

Do I need crutches or a brace after arthroscopic surgery?

Crutches or a brace may be recommended for a short period if the procedure involves weight-bearing joints like the knee or ankle. The need for support depends on the extent of the surgery and the joint’s stability post-procedure.

How long should I wait before driving after surgery?

Driving is usually not advised for at least a few days to a few weeks, depending on the joint treated and whether pain or stiffness affects movement. If surgery is performed on the leg or shoulder, driving should be avoided until full control of the limb is regained. It is also important to wait until pain medications that cause drowsiness are no longer required.

When can I return to work or daily activities?

Recovery time varies based on the type of arthroscopic procedure performed and the nature of work. Sedentary jobs may be resumed within a few days, while physically demanding work may require several weeks of recovery. The doctor will provide specific recommendations based on the healing process.

Is physiotherapy necessary after arthroscopic surgery?

Physiotherapy is often recommended to restore joint function, improve mobility, and strengthen the surrounding muscles. The extent of physiotherapy required depends on the type of surgery and the individual's recovery progress.

Are there any dietary restrictions after surgery?

There are usually no strict dietary restrictions, but a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals supports healing. Staying hydrated and consuming foods that reduce inflammation, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, can aid recovery. If anaesthesia was used, a light diet is usually advised for the first day to prevent nausea.

Will I have stitches, and when will they be removed?

Small stitches or adhesive strips are used to close the incisions. Stitches are usually removed within 7 to 14 days, depending on how well the wounds heal. In some cases, dissolvable stitches may be used, which do not require removal.

What should I do if I experience unusual pain or swelling after surgery?

Mild pain and swelling are expected, but excessive pain, severe swelling, redness, warmth around the joint, or discharge from the incision site may indicate an infection or other complication. Any unusual symptoms should be reported to the doctor immediately for evaluation and appropriate management.

Reviewed by Dr. Vikas Gupta, Senior Director - Max Institute of Musculoskeletal Sciences and Orthopaedics, Hand and Wrist, Elbow, Shoulder Specialist, Joint Replacement, Arthroscopy & Sports Injury, on 23 June 2025.