Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List
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Risks of Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a generally safe procedure and in the majority of cases, is done without any problems.
Any problems that may happen depend on the exact type of operation and other factors, such as your general health.
Some pain and stiffness around the joint are common after surgery but complications are very rare.
They include:
- accidental damage to the joint,
- damage to the structures inside or near to the joint,
- infection of the joint,
- bleeding into the joint,
- unexpected reaction to anaesthetic,
- loss of feeling in the skin around the joint, and
- small scars from the incisions.
More serious complications may happen but again, are very rare. For example, blood clot in the veins of one of the legs (deep vein thrombosis or DVT). Further treatment may be needed, such as antibiotics, to deal with an infection or returning to theatre to stop any bleeding.
Speak to the doctor if you experience any of the following after surgery:
- have pain, swelling, a hot feeling or tenderness in the joint, which gets worse,
- develop a high temperature,
- see fluid, pus or blood coming from the incisions, or
- develop numbness or tingling near to the joint.
