Which statement best defines the term “arthroscopy”?

Arthroscopy is defined as a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows for both visualization and treatment of joint problems through small incisions. This approach utilizes an arthroscope—a slender tube with a camera—that provides a clear view of the interior of the joint on a monitor. This technique is commonly used in various joints, including the knee, shoulder, and ankle, to diagnose and address issues such as tears, inflammation, and cartilage damage.

The minimally invasive aspect of arthroscopy is significant because it usually results in less trauma to the surrounding tissues, reduced postoperative pain, quicker recovery times, and the ability to perform some treatments concurrently, such as removing bone spurs or repairing torn ligaments, all during the same procedure. This comprehensive role in both visualization and therapeutic intervention distinguishes arthroscopy from the other options listed.

While techniques for repairing fractures with rods, forms of physical therapy, and diagnostic imaging methods are important in orthopedic care, they do not encapsulate the specific nature of arthroscopy, which uniquely combines the diagnostic and therapeutic elements in a single surgical approach.