You should seek the advice of your veterinarian if your pet is ill as only he or she can correctly advise on the diagnosis and recommend the treatment that is most appropriate for your pet.

Arthroscopy is an investigation that is gaining popularity in the veterinary profession - but what is it ?

Arthroscopy is simply the examination of the inside of a joint by looking through a small "scope" passed into the joint through a small incision. This technique allows the clinician to examine the internal structures of the joint (cartilage, ligaments, joint lining and menisci (made of fibrocartilage) ) without opening up the whole joint. 

The procedure requires an anaesthetic but it is very useful for detecting tears and other damage involving tissues within the joint. Skilled clinicians can take tissue samples (biopsies) and remove debris and damaged tissue fragments from the joint through the small incision.

Last updated : March 2008