Over the last 30 years it has become possible for a large number of orthopaedic procedures to be performed using an arthroscope i.e. a fiber optic telescope is used to look inside the joint. Through this type of keyhole surgery, fine instruments can be introduced through small incisions (portals) to allow surgery to be performed without the need for large cuts. This allows many procedures to be performed as a day stay and may allow a quicker return to normal function of the joint.

Arthroscopic surgery may be less painful than open surgery and may decrease the risk of healing problems.  Arthroscopy allows access to parts of the joints which cannot be accessed by other types of surgery.