Etymed
arthroscopy
Definition
Medical procedure using an arthroscope to visualize inside a joint
Clinical context
A 25-year-old basketball player presents with knee pain and locking after a sudden change in direction. Arthroscopic examination reveals a torn meniscus with loose fragments causing mechanical symptoms. The procedure allows for both diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic intervention through small portal incisions.
Mnemonic
ARTHROSCOPY: 'ARTHR' for joints, 'SCOPE' for viewing, 'COPY' for the camera-like instrument