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.
| 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. The decision depends on the dog's symptoms, examination findings and imaging results. It is not appropriate for every orthopedic problem. Your veterinary team will explain whether arthroscopy fits your dog's situation, always basing the recommendation on an individual evaluation rather than a general rule.
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 is often smoother than after open joint surgery because the incisions are small, but rest and controlled activity remain essential for healing. 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. 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.
Talk through your companion's case with our team
Every recommendation depends on an individual veterinary evaluation. Book a consultation or reach out — we are happy to help you understand the options.
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?
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Is arthroscopy diagnostic or therapeutic?
It can be both. Arthroscopy provides a magnified view to evaluate a joint, and in selected cases fine instruments allow treatment during the same procedure. Whether treatment is possible depends on the specific condition found.
Does arthroscopy replace all orthopedic surgery?
No. Some conditions are better treated with traditional open surgery, and sometimes arthroscopy is used to evaluate the joint before deciding. The best approach depends on the individual condition and your dog's overall health.
What imaging may be needed first?
Imaging such as X-rays, and sometimes advanced imaging like CT, is often performed before arthroscopy to define the problem and plan the procedure. Bringing any prior imaging and records can be helpful.
Do I need a referral?
Many orthopedic cases come through referral from a primary veterinarian, but you can also contact us directly. Sharing records and imaging in advance helps the team assess whether arthroscopy may be appropriate for your dog.