What is arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that explores and treats the inside of the joint using a thin camera inserted through a micro-incision. Thanks to real-time visualization, Dr. Coulin can intervene in a targeted, precise manner, and with minimal trauma to the surrounding tissues.
This technique is used both to make a precise diagnosis and to carry out therapeutic procedures, such as regularizing a meniscus, treating damaged cartilage or removing a foreign body.
In which cases is arthroscopy indicated?
Arthroscopy is often proposed when pain persists despite medical treatment, or when imaging tests reveal an intra-articular lesion.
It is commonly indicated for:
- Meniscal lesions (cracks, pinching)
- Localized cartilage damage
- Mechanical conflicts or joint blockages
- Joint lavage in cases of inflammatory osteoarthritis or infection
- Joint assessment before or after trauma
Each indication is made on a case-by-case basis, depending on the symptoms, the patient's age, their activity and the imaging results.
How does the procedure take place?
Arthroscopy is performed on an outpatient basis in most cases, under local or general anesthesia. Two or three small incisions of a few millimeters are sufficient to insert the camera (arthroscope) and surgical instruments.
Thanks to direct, real-time visualization, Dr. Coulin can perform precise actions while preserving the joint environment:
- Resection of a damaged meniscus
- Cartilage smoothing
- Removal of a foreign body
- Suture or tissue repair
The procedure lasts on average 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the type of procedure performed. The incisions are then closed with one or more stitches.
What are the post-operative consequences ?
Postoperative pain is moderate and well controlled. Patients can return home the same day, and walking can often resume the next day.
Rehabilitation begins quickly, adapted to the movement performed: gentle joint mobility, progressive muscle strengthening and movement awareness work if necessary. Sports activities can be resumed within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the joint and the procedure performed.
What are the benefits of arthroscopy?
Arthroscopic surgery patients benefit from rapid recovery, reduced postoperative pain, minimal scarring, and a reduced risk of complications. Combined with targeted rehabilitation, it allows for a rapid return to daily activities while preserving long-term joint health.
Dr. Coulin uses this technique to provide highly specialized surgical care, focused on precision, safety, and functional performance, to support each patient towards a lasting return to movement.
A benchmark technique in modern orthopedic surgery
Dr. Coulin practices arthroscopy with a high standard of safety and technical rigor. Each procedure is planned based on imaging, the patient's functional expectations, and the actual condition of the joint.
Are you suffering from a painful knee or hip?
Dr. Coulin will see you in Geneva to establish a precise diagnosis, offer you a tailor-made therapeutic strategy, and if necessary, plan an arthroscopy adapted to your case.
