An orthopedic surgeon is a physician with extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Orthopedic surgeons are able to treat many of these conditions with arthroscopic techniques. Arthroscopes are small cameras which allow orthopedic surgeons to access, visualize and treat the inside of joints and the surrounding tissues. Due to the small size of incisions and the orthopedic devices, patients often experience less discomfort and a quicker return to normal activities. These techniques are also used extensively in orthopedic sports medicine to return athletes back to their sport in less time than traditional open surgeries. When an orthopedic doctor uses these minimally invasive techniques to treat musculoskeletal conditions, patients often can return home on the day of surgery.

A variety of injuries and conditions are now treated by orthopedic surgeons with arthrosopy which were either unrecognized or difficult to treat with open surgical techniques. Injuries to ligaments, tendons, and articular cartilage are now routinely treated with less morbidity and better patient satisfaction. These arthroscopic approaches are fostered by orthopedic specialists who dedicate their careers to improve patients’ outcomes and lives through these minimally invasive surgeries.

The Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA) and its publication The Journal of Arthroscopy and Arthroscopic Related Research are devoted to the advancement of arthroscopy. Orthopaedic surgeons who specialize in the art and science of arthroscopy can be identified on this site.