"Arth-" refers to a joint, like the knee or the shoulder. Arthroscopy is a surgical approach to treating problems within the joint in a minimally invasive manner.  A small camera is used to look inside the knee and specially made tools are used to treat injury. Knee arthroscopy is often done to treat injured cartilage, meniscus or ligaments. Most patients are kept on crutches for only a short period of time until their comfort allows them to be discontinued. Arthroscopy is an outpatient procedure and you can often begin getting back to regular activities including showering in just a couple days. If imaging such as an MRI shows there may be an indication for arthroscopy, we can discuss some of the risks and benefits and together develop an appropriate plan to get back to activity!