General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that allows a joint to be viewed using a small camera inserted through an incision. The knee is often involved, but other joints can also be examined.
The surgeon may use the procedure to assess an injury, take a sample or treat an abnormality. If treatment is needed, additional small incisions may allow surgical instruments to be introduced.
Before the procedure, discuss the planned intervention, its risks, anaesthesia and length of stay. Tell the team about your medicines and allergies; only the doctor can give instructions for you, particularly about anticoagulants.
Depending on the procedure, you may return home the same day or after a hospital stay. If you leave on the same day, arrange for someone to accompany you and clarify discharge and rehabilitation instructions.
After the procedure, immediately report chills or fever, severe pain not relieved or increasing at rest, a red, hot or leaking wound, or a painful or swollen calf to the surgeon or doctor. These signs may indicate a complication.
After an operation, chest pain, difficulty breathing, a cough with blood-stained sputum, faintness or loss of consciousness can indicate pulmonary embolism. A rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, mottled knees, blue fingers or lips, or cold hands or feet are other possible signs. For these postoperative signs, call 15 or 112 immediately in France.
Sources
Your health review
Review your health
Mon bilan prévention is an appointment to discuss your habits and choose your health priorities. Review the four age groups and practical information.