Diagnostic arthroscopy is the keyhole examination of the inside of the knee without actually performing any surgical procedures.

arthroscopeThe arthroscope has an integral light source and camera. A second portal allows input of water under pressure, while a third portal allows an instrument such as a probe.
arthroscopic photograph of a knee meniscusPhotographs can be taken through the camera inside the joint. Here is a normal meniscus seated on the tibia bone, with a rounded normal femoral condyle above it.

 

Probing the joint

During a diagnostic arthroscopy a blunt-ended probe is generally used to feel the joint surfaces, examine the menisci and feel for the integrity of the cruciate ligaments.

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Dr Sheila Strover (Editor)
BSc (Hons), MB BCh, MBA

See biography...