Arthroscopic surgery is joint surgery performed through small portals into the joint. It utilizes an arthroscope, which is an elongated stainless steel and glass scope that fits into one portal. An instrument goes into another portal. The process of coordinating the two is called "triangulation." It requires significant practice to develop the coordination to perform surgery effectively.

The surgery is performed with sterile surgical technique to avoid infection. Patients undergoing arthroscopic surgery are under general anesthesia in an equine surgical suite. The horse is anesthetized. The limb is surgically prepared and draped. A small (1cm) incision is made into the joint and the arthroscope is placed through it into the joint.

Another incision (the instrument portal) is created and an instrument (probe, grabbing forcep or rongeur or other instrument) is placed into that. The joint is explored to fully understand the extent and nature of the injury and the health of the joint. Diagnostic information is gathered.

The entire procedure is usually recorded on digital media or video. The procedure is completed. The joint is flushed into one portal and out the other. The portal incisions are sutured. The limb is bandaged in a sterile bandage, and the horse is taken to the recovery room.

Your role after surgery is critical, as there is often exercise restriction with hand walking for a variable period following surgery. Bandages and surgical sites need to be monitored. Medications may need to be given. Progress will need to be monitored and evaluated.