Arthroscopy offers many diagnostic and therapeutic benefits. It is the most accurate method of diagnosing the cause of internal damage in the joints. It may be used to visualize issues that may not be noticed on x-rays or during an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). False-positive and false-negative results are typically rare.

Therapeutically, arthroscopy can provide results comparable to open surgeries for certain conditions with fewer complications. The incidence of disease and rate of infection are both reduced. Range of motion is not as likely to be reduced, and less recovery time is needed. Arthroscopy is often, but not always, less costly than open surgeries. But in some cases open surgery is needed.

Risks of arthroscopy are relatively low. Complications are very rare and, when they do occur, are generally minor and treatable.  Complications include:

• Hemarthrosis (blood accumulation within the joint)
• Infection
• Blood clots
• Synovial cyst (in the fluid sac lubricating the joints)
• Damage to nerves, blood vessels or other soft tissues