Arthroscopy is an examination of the interior of a joint by means of an arthroscope inserted into the joint through a small incision in the skin. An arthroscope is a small tubular instrument that contains a light and tiny camera attached to a closed-circuit monitor that displays an enlarged, real-time image. An arthroscope may be about the width of a pencil or smaller, depending on the affected joint.

One of the most common orthopedic measures in the United States, arthroscopy is usually an outpatient procedure. It can be performed on patients of any age but most commonly on those between 20 and 60 years.. Arthroscopy is used selectively, generally only after nonsurgical options (e.g., medications, joint supports, physical therapy) have been exhausted, but in a few conditions, such as acute trauma, it may be used earlier.

Arthroscopy allows for the examination, diagnosis and repair of minor joint problems with only a few small incisions. It is most commonly performed on the knees and shoulders but can also be used on the elbows, wrists, hips, ankles or other joints. It may be useful in diagnosis when other methods such as x-rays or MRI are inconclusive.

It may also be used to collect joint tissue for biopsy and in the treatment and the monitoring of disease and treatment progress. Arthroscopy may be necessary when a patient is experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or giving-way of the joint and other treatments have failed or provided only minimal effectiveness.

A similar procedure known as laparascopy can be performed through an incision in the abdominal region to identify and treat sources of abdominal pain or pelvic pain. Endoscopy involves insertion of a similar scope via the throat or the rectum to diagnose causes of chest pain or abdominal pain.