Arthroscopy is a form of surgery that allows us to gain a visual of the problems that are actually causing your pain. Using a tool known as an arthroscope, we are able to actually see the problems that exist within these joints. The arthroscope is a fiber optic instrument narrower than a pen, which can be put into a joint through small incisions less than 5 millimeters in length. A camera is attached to the arthroscope and the image is viewed on an LCD computer monitor. Small instruments ranging from 3-5 millimeters in size can be inserted through small incisions. These instruments allow the surgeon to see the various joint
structures,to diagnose the injury and then to repair, reconstruct or remove the damaged structure. To help your surgeon view the joint, sterile fluid is pumped into the joint.

The benefits of arthroscopy involve smaller incisions, faster healing, a more rapid recovery, and less
scarring. Arthroscopic surgical procedures are often performed on an outpatient basis and the patient is able to return home on the same day.

link: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00109
Common shoulder problems treated with arthroscopy include:
link: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00589
AC Separation: Link: orthoillustrated.com, http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00033
Shoulder Dislocation Link: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00529
Rotator Cuff Tendonitis,Bursitis,&Impingement Syndrome
Rotator Cuff Tendon Tears Links: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00064,http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00406, http://www.orthoillustrated.com/
Frozen Shoulder. Link: Frozen Shoulder. Link: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00071
labral tears. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00426
SLAP lesions. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00627
Shoulder Arthritis Link: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00222
Meniscus Injuries http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00358 www.Orthoillustrated.com
ACL Ligament Injurieshttp://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00549www.Orthoillustrated.com
Medial and Lateral Collateral Ligament Injuries, combined ligament injuries.
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00550
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00551
Knee Arthritis Link http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00212
Osteochondral lesions, loose bodies: Link: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00610
Chondromalaciae:Link: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00382
Common Ankle Disorders treated arthroscopically include:
Arthritis.Link: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00209
Ankle Sprains. Link: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00150
Osteochondral lesions, loose bodies of the ankle