Orthopaedics - Arthroscopy

Joint pain is common, but there comes a point where waiting and hoping it will pass is no longer an option. If pain persists for several weeks despite trying simple things like rest, ice, over-the-counter painkillers or a course of physiotherapy, then a consultation with a specialist should take place.

Specific signs or sensations warrant a trip to an orthopaedic surgeon. A knee that repeatedly gives way or locks mid-step, a shoulder that feels like it might pop out during everyday movements or a hip that causes a deep, dull ache after sitting for a while shouldn’t be ignored. Another red flag is night pain that wakes someone up as healthy joints should not generally hurt when a person is lying still. If after minor activity, swelling keeps coming back in the same joint there could also be a structural cause. Discussing arthroscopy in Dubai or elsewhere with a specialist becomes the logical next step for anyone who has already had an MRI that shows a tear or a defect.

A thorough work-up and investigations determine whether an arthroscopy is required. A detailed conversation is part of the process where a specialist looks into the location of pain, what makes it worse and if there has been a specific injury and how daily life is being affected. A physical examination, where the surgeon moves the joint in specific ways to check for instability, catching or unusual laxity is also performed. 

Imaging is an important diagnostic tool for arthroscopy. X-rays are used to look at bone alignment and to rule out arthritis. For soft tissues like cartilage, labrum, ligaments and tendons an MRI scan is the standard tool. An MR arthrogram is used in some cases, to provide finer detail especially for labral tears in the hip or shoulder. This procedure uses dye which is injected into the joint before scanning. These tools help surgeons decide if arthroscopy is appropriate and also exactly what needs to be done once the procedure begins.

• Complex meniscal tears 

• ACL reconstruction 

• Rotator cuff repair 

• Bankart repair 

• Hip arthroscopy 

• Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) correction

• Removal of loose bodies from the knee, hip, or shoulder

• Arthroscopic ankle debridement 

• Cartilage restoration procedures

We always explore non-surgical options first at NMC. A structured course of physiotherapy, activity modification, and where appropriate, an ultrasound-guided injection is trialled. This is to determine whether the problem resolves without surgery. When these measures fail to provide lasting relief, an arthroscopy is considered, or when structural damage is too significant for conservative care.

Patients receive either a regional or general anaesthetic on the day of the procedure, depending on the joint and complexity of the surgery. The surgeon makes two or three small incisions, one for the camera and one or two for instruments during the surgery. To expand the joint and provide a clear view, saline fluid is introduced with repairs or removals carried out using specialised fine instruments. The small incisions are then closed with a single stitch or steri-strip and a dressing is applied.

Recovery from knee arthroscopy or shoulder arthroscopy is generally faster than many patients anticipate. Physiotherapy typically begins within the first few days and patients may often walk without crutches within one week after a straightforward meniscal trim. The rehabilitation phase is longer for rotator cuff repair or ACL reconstruction. It could typically take four to six months, but the outcome is a stable, strong joint free from previous mechanical symptoms.

NMC delivers a consistent standard of care across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, and Al Ain across the UAE, helping all those seeking arthroscopy. To ensure continuity, from the initial consultation through to the final rehabilitation session, the orthopaedic team works closely with physiotherapists and pain specialists.

Our orthopaedic surgeons at NMC bring training from leading international centres in sports medicine and joint preservation. Many hold fellowships in arthroscopy and sports surgery, performing these procedures regularly. Their technical skill is only part of what they offer. Our arthroscopy specialists take the time to explain MRI results, why surgery is being recommended and what recovery will realistically involve. They answer a patient's question and walk them through the planned procedure. 

Across the NMC network in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, and Al Ain, our consultants are known for an approach that’s straightforward and communication that’s patient-centred. Our team is well equipped to help all those seeking hip arthroscopy, ankle arthroscopy or a second opinion on a shoulder problem.

Is arthroscopy painful?
The procedure itself is not felt because of the anaesthetic. Most patients describe a dull ache rather than sharp pain only after the surgery. The small incisions may be sore for a few days. But this is usually well managed with simple painkillers and ice packs.

Can arthritis be treated with arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is not a cure for widespread arthritis. Arthroscopy is unlikely to help if the joint surfaces are diffusely worn down. It can be very effective for younger patients with a specific, isolated cartilage defect or a torn meniscus in an otherwise healthy joint. 

What are the risks of joint arthroscopy?
Serious complications are uncommon. The ones that get mentioned include infection (less than one in a hundred), deep vein thrombosis and nerve irritation from the fluid or the position of the limb. Stiffness can occur, particularly after shoulder arthroscopy, which is why early physiotherapy is emphasised.