Arthroscopy is defined as which of the following?

• A. A diagnostic imaging technique for joints
• B. A procedure to replace a joint
• C. A minimally invasive surgical procedure using an arthroscope to examine and sometimes treat damage inside a joint
• D. A surgical repair of ligaments

Answer: (C)

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses an arthroscope—a small camera inserted into a joint through tiny incisions—to examine the interior of the joint and, if needed, treat problems there. This approach allows direct visualization and targeted treatment (such as removing loose bodies, smoothing cartilage, or repairing a torn meniscus) without large open surgery. It’s different from purely diagnostic imaging like X-rays or MRI, which don’t involve entering the joint. It’s also not a joint replacement, which involves substituting the joint surfaces, and while ligament repair can be performed during an arthroscopic procedure, the defining idea is the use of the arthroscope to visualize and treat inside the joint.