Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is now a standard procedure for investigating and treating problems with the larger joints. Usually with the patient anaesthetised, the joint cavity is filled with saline and a telescope introduced so that procedures can be carried out under direct vision.
With arthroscopy it is possible to perform:
- joint washouts of loose osteophytes and traumatic debris
- debridement of damaged tissue such as of the torn segment of a damaged meniscus
- cartilage shaving of irregular surfaces
- biopsy of abnormal tissue
NICE state that "..Current evidence suggests that arthroscopic knee washout alone should not be used as a treatment for osteoarthritis because it cannot demonstrate clinically useful benefit in the short or long term.."(1)
Reference:
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