Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a small camera (arthroscope) and tiny instruments inserted through 2–3 small incisions (usually less than 1 cm) to diagnose and treat problems inside a joint. It is most commonly performed on the knee, followed by the shoulder, hip, ankle, and elbow. Compared to traditional open surgery, it causes less tissue damage, less pain, minimal scarring, and significantly faster recovery.

Knee arthroscopy is frequently used for:

• Torn meniscus (cartilage damage)
• ACL or other ligament tears / reconstruction
• Loose bodies or damaged cartilage
• Synovitis (inflamed joint lining)
• Early arthritis or kneecap (patella) problems

It is usually recommended when pain, swelling, locking, or instability does not improve with physiotherapy, medications, or injections.

In addition to the knee, arthroscopy is commonly performed on the shoulder, hip, ankle, elbow, and wrist. Dr. Md. Iftekharul Alam specializes in knee and shoulder arthroscopy with advanced international training.

Most knee or shoulder arthroscopy procedures take 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity. Simple diagnostic arthroscopy or debridement is faster, while procedures like ACL reconstruction or meniscus repair may take longer. The surgery is performed under general or regional (spinal) anesthesia.

Hospital Stay: Most procedures are done as day-care surgery or require only 1–2 days in hospital.

Recovery Timeline:
• Walking: Within a few days
• Desk work: 1–3 weeks
• Full recovery: 4–12 weeks
• Physiotherapy: Usually 3–6 weeks

Recovery is significantly faster than traditional open surgery.

Arthroscopy is generally much less painful than open surgery because of the small incisions. Most patients experience only mild to moderate discomfort for the first 2–5 days, which is well managed with oral painkillers, ice packs, and elevation. Many patients can walk with minimal assistance within 24–48 hours.

Arthroscopy is considered very safe with low complication rates (usually less than 1–2%). Possible risks include infection, bleeding, joint stiffness, or nerve irritation (all rare). Choosing an experienced surgeon with international training and following post-operative instructions greatly reduces these risks.

Costs in 2026 vary depending on the hospital and procedure complexity:

Government / NITOR: BDT 35,000 – 70,000
Mid-tier Private Hospitals: BDT 80,000 – 1,40,000
Premium Corporate Hospitals: BDT 1,60,000 – 2,80,000

Many corporate health insurance policies cover arthroscopic procedures. Contact the chambers for current package pricing.

• Driving: Usually 1–3 weeks (once off strong painkillers)
• Desk / Office work: 1–2 weeks
• Light sports / exercise: 4–8 weeks
• Competitive sports / heavy work: 3–6 months (especially after ACL reconstruction)

Always follow your surgeon’s specific clearance before returning to activities.

Preparation:
• Complete all pre-operative tests
• Stop certain medications as advised
• Fast before surgery as instructed
• Arrange someone to take you home

Post-Op Do’s: Follow physiotherapy strictly, use ice & elevation, keep incisions clean and dry.

Post-Op Don’ts: Avoid soaking wounds and heavy lifting until cleared by the surgeon.