- Published
- Updated
What is veterinary arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique in which a small camera, called an arthroscope, is inserted into a joint through a tiny incision. It gives the surgeon a magnified, well-lit view of structures inside the joint, often revealing detail that is difficult to assess from imaging alone. Through additional small incisions, fine instruments can sometimes be used to treat certain problems during the same procedure. Because the approach avoids opening the joint widely, it tends to cause less tissue trauma. Arthroscopy is performed under general anesthesia, and whether it is suitable depends on the individual joint and your dog's overall condition.
Scroll horizontally to read all columns.
| Common joints | Elbow and shoulder, plus selected others |
|---|---|
| Role | Diagnostic and, in selected cases, therapeutic |
| Imaging first | Often X-rays or advanced imaging before the procedure |
| Anesthesia | Performed under general anesthesia |
When it may be recommended
Arthroscopy may be considered when a dog has lameness or joint pain that points to a problem inside a specific joint, particularly the elbow or shoulder. It can be valuable when imaging suggests a condition that would benefit from direct visualization, or when both assessment and treatment might be achieved with one minimally invasive procedure. You can read more about how we approach joint evaluation on our veterinary arthroscopy service page. The decision depends on the dog's symptoms, examination findings and imaging results, and it is not appropriate for every orthopedic problem. If joint pain is affecting your dog, you are welcome to book a minimally invasive surgery consultation in Los Angeles so the team can advise based on an individual evaluation.
Elbow, shoulder and selected joint conditions
In dogs, arthroscopy is most commonly associated with the elbow and shoulder. Elbow conditions, including forms of elbow dysplasia, are a frequent reason for joint evaluation in young large-breed dogs, and the ACVS provides owner education on these conditions. Shoulder problems affecting soft tissues within the joint may also be assessed arthroscopically. Other joints can sometimes be evaluated depending on the case. The aim is to understand the specific problem clearly so that the most appropriate treatment can be chosen. Because conditions vary widely, the role of arthroscopy is decided individually after examination and imaging.
What happens before consultation
Before recommending arthroscopy, the team typically gathers a full history and performs an orthopedic examination. Imaging such as X-rays, and sometimes advanced imaging like CT, often comes first to help define the problem and plan appropriately. Bringing any prior records, imaging and a description of when the lameness started and what makes it better or worse can be very helpful. This information guides whether arthroscopy is reasonable or whether another approach is more suitable. As with any procedure, the recommendation depends on an individual evaluation of your dog's joint and overall health.
Recovery and activity restriction
Recovery after arthroscopy depends on the joint, condition and treatment performed. Rest and controlled activity remain essential even when the incisions are small. Your team will provide a specific plan covering activity restriction, incision care, pain management and follow-up, and may recommend physical rehabilitation in some cases. The timeline varies between patients depending on the joint, the condition treated and your dog's age and health. Following the at-home plan closely supports the best outcome, and you can book an orthopedic surgery consultation in Los Angeles to discuss what recovery might look like for your dog. Contact the clinic if you notice swelling, discharge, increased lameness or other concerns during the recovery period.
When open orthopedic surgery may still be needed
Arthroscopy does not replace all orthopedic surgery. Some conditions are better addressed with traditional open procedures, and in certain cases the team may use arthroscopy to evaluate the joint and then proceed with open surgery if needed. Severe or complex problems, or those involving structures outside the joint, may require a different approach. The priority is choosing the safest, most effective treatment for the specific condition rather than the least invasive option by default. Your veterinarian will explain the reasoning and discuss the options based on what the examination, imaging and any arthroscopic findings reveal.
Questions to ask your veterinarian
- Is arthroscopy diagnostic, therapeutic, or both for my dog's condition?
- What imaging is needed before the procedure?
- Could open surgery still be necessary, and when?
- What does the recovery and rehabilitation plan involve?
Related pages
Frequently asked questions
Continue your reading
Sources & further reading
For more detail on the topics in this guide, explore these professional resources.
American College of Veterinary Surgeons
Canine Elbow Dysplasia (opens in a new tab)Elbow dysplasia, assessment and treatment options, including selected arthroscopic procedures.
American Animal Hospital Association
2020 AAHA Anesthesia and Monitoring Guidelines for Dogs and Cats (opens in a new tab)Individual pre-anesthetic assessment, monitoring and the transition into recovery.
This guide provides general educational information and does not replace an individual veterinary examination or case-specific advice.