Arthroscopic Surgery is a procedure that allows surgeons to see, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint.  The procedure, also called an Arthroscopy, requires only small incisions and is guided by a miniature viewing instrument or scope.  Before arthroscopy existed, surgeons made large incisions that affected the surrounding joint structures and tissues.  They had to open the joint to view it and perform surgery.  The traditional surgery method carries a higher risk of infection and requires a longer time for recovery.  In contrast, arthroscopy is less invasive.  It has a decreased risk of infection and shorter recovery period.  Today, arthroscopic surgery is one of the most common orthopedic procedures.