Arthroscopy
(keyhole surgery)

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique that helps us to see inside your joint to investigate and repair any damage.

  • Diagnose a wide range of conditions
  • Avoid more invasive surgery in the future
  • Return to daily activities within 1–3 weeks

The hip and knee specialist

Arthroscopy involves inserting a thin fibre optic scope through a small incision into your joint. Mr Shah can then diagnose, and usually repair, any damage – without the need for more invasive surgery.

We can investigate and treat a wide range of conditions using arthroscopy, including early arthritis, sports injuries and soft tissue injuries. Typical symptoms include pain, inflammation, restricted movement and instability.

Hip arthroscopy is a highly skilled procedure, and Mr Shah is one of only a few surgeons in the UK to offer this treatment

One-step diagnosis and repair

Arthroscopy is usually performed under a general anaesthetic, so you’ll be asleep during the procedure. Using an arthroscope, which is just a few millimetres wide, the inside of your joint will be projected onto a screen.

Mr Shah will look for signs of damage to your bone or cartilage, and in the case of knee arthroscopy, your ligaments, too. In most cases, any damage that’s found can be treated there and then, using thin instruments inserted through one or two small incisions.

Some of the treatments Mr Shah can carry out through arthroscopy include the repair of torn ligaments, and the removal of damaged cartilage, inflamed tissue and loose fragments of bone.

It was a great relief to meet Mr Shah

It was a great relief to meet Mr Shah, who within a short time diagnosed where the pain was coming from and what the problem was. He is the most polite, pleasant and trustworthy doctor I have met.

Getting you back on your feet fast

The benefits of arthroscopy over more invasive procedures include less swelling and discomfort, reduced scar tissue and a shorter recovery period. In many cases, it also avoids the need for a second operation, along with any associated risks or downtime.

Arthroscopy is normally carried out as a day case, and you will be able to go home on the same day as your procedure. Most patients return to work and resume daily activities within a few weeks. You’ll be able to take part in more vigorous activities around six weeks after your operation.

Start your journey
to a new lease of life

To ask us a question or arrange a consultation with Mr Shah, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of keyhole surgery?

Arthroscopy is minimally invasive and very precise, so there is minimal pain and scarring and a lower risk of complications.

Is the procedure painful?

You’ll be given a general anaesthetic, so you’ll be asleep throughout your operation and won’t feel any pain.

Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight?

Arthroscopy is usually carried out as a day case, so you can go home on the day of your procedure.

How long does it take to recover from arthroscopy?

Most patients return to work and resume daily activities within 1–3 weeks. It will take approximately six weeks before you’re ready for more vigorous pursuits.

What aftercare will I receive?

We’ll provide you with all your aftercare advice during your pre-operative assessment a few days before your surgery. On the day of your procedure, you’ll have the opportunity to go through this information again and ask us any questions. To keep a close eye on your progress, we’ll see you for two follow-up appointments.